Oral Cancer Prevention

Not all cases of oral cancer and the cancer of oropharyngeal (National Cancer Institute) can be prevented, however site the risk of getting these cancers can be reduced.

Following are the Main Risk Factors for Oral Cancer

• Age.

• Race – The risk is higher in African Americans.

• Immuno suppressive drugs (Immuno suppressive drug Wiki Page)

• Smoking or chewing tobacco.

• Having more than three alcoholic drinks per day.

• Long time exposure to sun.

• Any previous head or neck cancer also increases the risk.

• It is also believed exposure to human papilloma virus (HPV) (What is HPV? Infection or Cancer) may also contribute to higher risks in some cases via oral sex transmission. In the recent years vaccines that reduce the risk of infection (Healthy Gums and Teeth) have become available. These vaccines originally were develop for cervical cancer, but they have been shown to reduce the risk of other cancer related HPV cancers.

Steps To Help Prevent Oral Cancer

• Brush and floss your teeth regularly. An unhealthy mouth reduces the immune system so your body can’t fight the disease.

• Have alcohol in moderation. Do not binge, no more than one or two drinks a day.

• Do not smoke or chew tobacco.

Prevent Oral Cancer and Build Your Immune System With Exercise and a Healthy Lifestyle

• Decrease your sun exposure. Remember to place sunscreen to your lips.

• Exercise regularly, it helps to boost your immune system.

• Replace frying and grilling with baking, steaming or boiling foods. Eat lots of beans, berries, cabbage and broccoli.

• Visit your dentist on a regular base for oral cancer screening. Also conduct self exam and if you see anything unusual contact your dentist.

• Wear properly fitted dentures. Avoid oral irrigation such as ill-fitting dentures or night guards.

• Treat any pre-cancerous growths. If there are lesions you are not sure of have that check by a doctor. In many cases they do a biopsy. If the biopsy shows evidence of early cancer, remove those lesions.

For more questions about oral cancer prevention, or if you want to schedule your teeth whitening appointment please contact our office.

• 12340 Santa Monica Blvd. Suite 241 West Los Angeles, CA 90025

contact@westladentalcare.com