3 Things You Should Know About Oral Cancer

Even though conditions such as cavities and gum disease are usually not life-threatening, it is important to remain vigilant since oral health problems can be deadly if not detected early. This is especially true when it comes to oral cancer, which is a potentially fatal disease that should not be underestimated. Keep reading to learn about three important oral cancer facts that you should be aware of to safeguard your smile.

#1: Your Lifestyle Can Raise Your Risk

Age is commonly cited as a risk factor for oral cancer, but lifestyle choices can also increase your likelihood of developing the disease. Habits such as tobacco use are strongly linked to oral cancer, with around 75% of those diagnosed at 50 years or older being tobacco users. Alcohol consumption also plays a role, particularly when combined with tobacco use, as it exacerbates certain effects caused by tobacco.

#2: It Can Go Unnoticed in the Early Stages

The subtle nature of oral cancer is a significant danger, as it often goes undetected in its early stages. This is due to the disease’s symptomology, which can be painless and cause minimal physical changes. Additionally, visible changes like white or red patches of tissue or ulcers can appear benign at first glance.

The subtlety of oral cancer is what makes it particularly life-threatening. According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, this subtlety can lead to late detection of the disease. By the time patients discover it, cancer cells may have already spread to other parts of the body.

#3: Dentists Can Screen for It

It is easy to get screened for oral cancer by simply scheduling a visit to your dentist’s office. During a routine oral exam, which should be performed twice per year for most patients, dentists will examine your mouth and neck for any signs of cancer. This process is quick, painless, and non-invasive. If any concerns arise, your dentist can refer you to a physician or cancer specialist for further testing.

Maintaining good oral health is a serious matter even without the risk of oral cancer. It’s important to keep the facts mentioned above in mind to help you remain vigilant about the state of your smile and the health of the rest of your body.

About the Practice

West Hartford Dental Group offers comprehensive dental services to patients of all ages. Located in West Hartford, They specialize in providing high-quality preventive, cosmetic, and restorative treatments as well as emergency procedures. Moreover, the practice is a proud provider of oral cancer screenings to help you catch and treat the condition as soon as possible. Contact West Hartford Dental Group via phone at (860) 236-4249 or visit their website if you want to learn more about their services or to schedule an appointment.