At Westside Dental Studio, we take your health seriously, and that includes detecting oral cancer early. Oral cancer is treatable when caught in its early stages, and during a comprehensive dental examination, our team will look for signs of this condition. Early detection is key, and our dental professionals are trained to recognize the warning signs.
While everyone is at risk, certain individuals have a higher likelihood of developing oral cancer. Understanding these risk factors can help you take proactive steps to protect your health. Here are some key factors that increase the risk of oral cancer:
1. Age
As you age, your risk of developing oral cancer increases. While the majority of cases are diagnosed in people over the age of 62, there has been a notable rise in cases related to Human Papillomavirus (HPV) in people between the ages of 52 and 56. It is important to have regular oral cancer screenings, even at a younger age, especially as the average age of diagnosis continues to decrease.
2. Gender
Men are more likely to develop oral cancer than women, with some studies suggesting men are twice as likely to be diagnosed. This is partly linked to higher tobacco and alcohol use among men. However, the gap is narrowing as more women today are consuming alcohol and using tobacco. Both men and women should schedule routine oral exams to detect oral cancer early.
3. Tobacco Use
Tobacco use, whether smoking or chewing, significantly increases your risk for oral cancer. Tobacco products can lead to cancers of the mouth, throat, gums, and lips. The risk is related to how long and how often tobacco is used. Even if you do not use tobacco, it’s essential to keep up with regular dental exams with a dentist in Cookeville.
4. Alcohol Consumption
Heavy drinking is another risk factor. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), individuals who consume two or more alcoholic drinks a day (for men) or one drink per day (for women) are at a much higher risk for oral cancer. However, oral cancer can still occur in non-drinkers, which is why routine screenings are important for everyone.
5. HPV Infection
Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection, is associated with a growing number of oral cancer cases. Those diagnosed with HPV-related oral cancers tend to be younger and may not engage in traditional risk behaviors like smoking or drinking. Regular dental visits are crucial for early detection and prevention.
6. Sun Exposure
People who work outdoors or have prolonged exposure to sunlight may be at risk for lip cancer due to UV rays. Using lip balm with UV protection can help lower this risk. If you’re frequently in the sun, make sure to schedule extra checkups with your dentist in Cookeville to stay proactive about your health.
7. Diet and Nutrition
A diet lacking in fruits and vegetables can increase your risk for oral cancer. However, even those with a healthy diet can develop this disease. That’s why regular dental exams are essential for detecting signs of oral cancer early.
No one is immune to oral cancer, which is why regular screenings are so important. These seven risk factors may increase your likelihood of developing oral cancer, but they don’t negate the need for dental exams. If you haven’t had a comprehensive oral examination recently, contact us at Westside Dental Studio today. We’re here to help you maintain your overall health and catch oral cancer early if necessary.