The early signs of oral cancer are often overlooked, hindering the effectiveness of treatment. Luckily, your dentist should perform an oral cancer screening at your bi-annual appointments, in addition to giving your teeth and gums a thorough cleaning. However, you can decrease your risks altogether by avoiding the following.

Risk Factors of Oral Cancer

1. Tobacco Use

Roughly 90% of people diagnosed with oral cancer use tobacco products. This includes cigarettes, cigars, chewing tobacco, and snuff. If you currently make smoking a habit, take steps to quit. This tough process will likely include dealing with both your addiction and sources of stress in your life that are prompting you to grab a cigarette.

2. UV Exposure

Lip cancer is extremely common and often related to UV ray exposure. Roughly 30% of patients diagnosed with lip cancer hold occupations that require extensive outdoor time. Familiarize yourself with common symptoms, such as sores that won’t heal, loose teeth, and mouth pain. If you spend a lot of time outside, use a skin-protecting lip balm along with an SPF 30 sunscreen on other exposed skin.

3. HPV

The sexually transmitted disease HPV (human papillomavirus) can contribute to oral cancer, often occurring in the back of the throat. Symptoms include difficulty swallowing, a visible growth in the back of the mouth, and white or reddish patches inside the mouth. If you have HPV, schedule regular oral cancer screenings.

If you’re overdue for an oral cancer screening, contact Cooper Family Dentistry. This Gilbert, AZ, practice is led by dentist Edward Marra and provides a variety of services. From general teeth cleanings to cosmetic dentistry enhancements, you’ll find all the treatments you need to achieve and maintain a healthy smile. Call (480) 964-1000 to schedule an appointment and connect on Facebook for more oral health tips. You can learn more about this practice online.