At Frisco Dental Studio, our team is dedicated to your health, and that includes looking for signs of oral cancer during your comprehensive dental examination. Early detection is crucial because, when caught early, most forms of oral cancer are treatable. Our skilled dental team is trained to identify the signs and symptoms of this disease.
While everyone can develop oral cancer, certain groups are at a higher risk. Here are the top seven risk factors for oral cancer:
Age
As you reach your mid-40s, your risk of developing oral cancer increases. Most cases are diagnosed around the age of 62, but the average age is decreasing due to an increase in HPV-related cases. Individuals between 52 and 56 are now seeing higher diagnosis rates. Regular oral cancer screenings are essential at any age.
Gender
Men are twice as likely to develop oral cancer as women. This disparity may be linked to higher rates of alcohol and tobacco use among men. However, the gap is closing as more women use these substances. Additionally, younger men are increasingly being diagnosed with HPV-related oral cancer. Both men and women should schedule regular check-ups to detect oral cancer early.
Tobacco Use
Using tobacco, whether smoking or chewing, significantly increases your risk of oral cancer. Tobacco can lead to cancers of the mouth, throat, cheeks, gums, and inner lips. The risk is directly related to how long and how often you use tobacco. Even if you don’t use tobacco, regular dental exams are crucial for early detection.
Alcohol Consumption
About 70% of those diagnosed with oral cancer are heavy drinkers. The CDC defines heavy drinking as two or more drinks per day for men and one or more for women. Heavy drinkers are more than twice as likely to develop oral cancer compared to non-drinkers. Oral cancer can still occur in those who abstain from alcohol, making regular examinations important for everyone.
Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
HPV is linked to at least 10,000 cases of oral cancer annually in the United States. Those with HPV-related oral cancers tend to be younger and often do not smoke or drink. Fortunately, these cancers generally have a lower risk of death or recurrence. We recommend maintaining regular dental visits for proactive monitoring.
Sunlight Exposure
Prolonged exposure to sunlight increases the risk of lip cancer. It’s important to use UV protection, such as lip balms with SPF, especially if you work outside. For those frequently in the sun, additional dental examinations can help in early detection.
Diet
A poor diet can increase the risk of oral cancer. Diets low in fruits and vegetables have been linked to higher rates of oral cancer, according to the American Dental Association. Regardless of your diet, regular dental check-ups are essential to catch any early signs of oral cancer.
Oral cancer can affect anyone, making regular dental examinations critical for early detection. At Frisco Dental Studio, our comprehensive exams aim to detect any signs of oral cancer early on. If you are looking for a dentist in Frisco, contact us today to schedule your appointment and take a proactive step towards your health.
Frisco Dental Studio
Email: hello@friscodentalstudio.com
Url: https://www.friscodentalstudio.com/
13030 Preston Rd Suite 300
Frisco, TX 75035