There are certain things patients can do to reduce the risk of oral cancer, which we discuss thoroughly in this review. While not all instances of oral cancers can be prevented, taking action to reduce the overall risk and ensure you are able to detect the early signs of oral cancer is certainly helpful.
During an oral cancer screening, general dentists check for signs of oral cancer and educate the patient on ways to prevent the disease. Several ways to reduce the risk of oral cancer include avoiding tobacco use, reducing alcohol consumption, limiting sun exposure and taking measures to prevent contracting HPV.
People who use tobacco are significantly more likely to get oral cancer than those who do not use tobacco products. The cause of oral cancer is unknown, and studies are still ongoing as to why this link exists. Nevertheless, patients who want to limit their risk of oral cancer should avoid tobacco use as much as they possibly can. For many, this means quitting cigarette smoking, chewing tobacco and other more common tobacco-based products. Those who use tobacco regularly should visit the general dentist annually for an oral cancer screening.
Alcohol consumption in moderation does not lead to a serious cause for concern. However, there is a known correlation between alcohol consumption and oral cancer as well, particularly among those consuming alcohol on a regular basis. To reduce the risk of oral cancer, limit the amount of alcohol you drink. Most notably, the risk of throat, voice box and esophagus cancer increase when consuming excessive levels of alcohol. Also, those who drink regularly and use tobacco products are much more likely to develop oral cancer than those who only drink or use tobacco alone.
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation can increase the risk of cancer. Therefore, it is important to reduce the amount of time you are in the sun when outside for longer periods of time. This means reducing tanning for too long at one time if you go to the beach regularly and staying protected with sunscreen and other products if you work outside. Excessive sun exposure is known to particularly increase the risk of lip cancer.
Human papillomavirus, also called HPV, is the most common type of sexually transmitted infection (STI). It can increase the risk of oropharyngeal cancer, which affects the tonsils, base of the tongue and back of the throat. To reduce the risk of oral cancer, practice safe sex. There are also some types of preventable vaccines for HPV as well.
Our dental team offers oral cancer screenings to all who are interested. We encourage annual screenings, especially to those who are at an increased risk of oral cancer. To learn more or to arrange a screening visit, contact us today by phone or email.
Request an appointment here: https://fountaincitydental.com or call Dental Partners Fountain City at (865) 672-6525 for an appointment in our Knoxville office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Oral Cancer in Knoxville, TN.
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