Top 6 Proven Ways for Preventing Oral Cancer
Compared to some of the more well-known diseases, such as Hodgkin’s lymphoma and cervical cancer, oral cancer has a greater fatality rate.
This is because oral cancer is frequently detected only after it has spread. Yet another justification for making that appointment with the dentist every 6 months!
Those are pretty alarming numbers, as we all know. The good thing is that mouth cancer is highly preventable, easy to detect with routine exams, and curable if caught early.
At A Plus Dental, we sincerely care about your family’s health and wellbeing. In light of this, we’d like to suggest some measures to lower your risk of developing mouth cancer.
Let’s start with some common oral cancer warning signs:
- Chronic pain in the mouth or lips
- Mouth ulcers that never go away
- Anywhere inside the mouth, red or white spots
- Lumps in the mouth or the gums
- Difficulty swallowing or chewing
- Loose teeth
- Constantly having bad breath
- Chronic ear ache
Following our discussion of the signs and symptoms, let’s move on to prevention strategies for oral cancer. Here are our top six recommendations for preventing oral cancer:
#1. Maintain good oral hygiene
Tooth decay and gum disease can occur if you do not brush and floss on a regular basis. An unhealthy mouth might weaken your immune system, reducing your ability to fight oral cancer.
#2. Avoid using tobacco
Numerous cancers, particularly those of the head, neck, and oral cavity have been related to smoking. Additionally, chewing tobacco is unsafe.
Avoid using cigarettes to minimise your risk of acquiring oral or oropharyngeal cancer dramatically.
#3. Limit your alcohol consumption
Oropharyngeal and oral cancers are known to be significantly increased by alcohol usage, especially when combined with cigarette use.
Limit your alcohol intake if you drink. Heavy drinking, defined as 3.5 or more drinks per day, can double or triple the risk of some malignant tumours by two to three times.
#4. Consume a nutritious diet
No magic food or dietary component has been proven effective in preventing mouth cancer.
Scientists aren’t sure if black raspberries, green tea, or other elements will end up in a future anti-cancer medication. However, a nutritious diet has been linked to a lower cancer incidence.
#5. Examine your mouth and lips regularly for any irregularities
At least once a month, perform a self-examination. It only takes a few minutes of your time, but it could significantly impact your life.
Invest in a simple mouth mirror (available at most pharmacies) for those difficult-to-see places. Examine the back and sides of your tongue.
Consult your dentist if you notice or feel suspicious lumps, bumps, painful spots, or white, red, or grey patches.
#6. Visit your dentist regularly
Don’t forget to visit your Campbelltown dentist every six months and schedule an annual check-up with your doctor.
Additionally, if you have any of the signs mentioned earlier, immediately make an appointment with your physician or dentist. It’s crucial to be cautious, even though some of these could be signs of less severe illnesses.
Oral Health Care at Campbelltown
We know that it is not a pleasant subject to discuss, but it is crucial to be aware of the risk factors to protect yourself and your loved ones.
We at A Plus Dental are here to help you on your path to keeping your mouth cancer-free and healthy!
At A Plus Dental, we work hard to treat every patient with compassion and gentleness in a friendly setting.
Since 1997, A Plus Dental has provided dental care to Campbelltown and surrounding areas. We hope to help you and your family achieve optimal oral health through comprehensive and modern dentistry.
Call us at (02) 4627 3833, or you can visit us at Suite 3/300 Queen Street in Campbelltown.