Having to deal with any variant of cancer is something that nobody deserves to live with; unfortunately, though we may not always get a say in how the systems of our bodies function, there are most definitely measures we can take to significantly lower the risk of this condition developing. This includes eating a balanced diet, wearing sunscreen, and exercising.
Looking at oral cancer specifically, we can be proactive and take steps to prevent it from arising – one especially great thing to do is to attend an oral cancer screening in Forest Lake. Our local dental clinic near you offers this treatment to all our patients; get in touch with us today to schedule a time to come in and have this done. Taking care of your smile helps preserve the rest of your health, after all.
What is Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer is also known as mouth cancer. It is an umbrella term that encompasses several forms of the condition including cancer of the tongue and gums, cancer that develops in the lining of your cheeks, lips, and on the bottom and roof of your mouth. Since the biological systems of your mouth are highly interconnected with the rest of your head and neck, as a result, oral cancer is usually treated in a very similar fashion to head and neck cancers.
But how do I know if I have oral cancer?
We’ve provided a list of common symptoms for you to keep an eye out for. These are noted below:
• Trouble swallowing or swallowing is painful.
• A mouth/cold sore isn’t healing.
• White and/or red patches have formed inside your mouth.
• Mouth and/or jaw pain.
• Your teeth feel loose.
• A noticeable lump has developed in your mouth or on your neck.
Whether you’re able to detect these signs or not, if you’re feeling unsure or worried, don’t hesitate to contact your dentist in Forest Lake, MN. They are there to assist you with all your questions and concerns.
What Causes Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer can develop due to the following factors:
• A weak immune system.
• You’ve had cancer in the past.
• Smoking
• Excessive alcohol consumption.
• Your lips have been exposed to too much sunshine.
• HPV.
• Poor oral hygiene.
Oral Cancer Screenings
With all that said, you have to ability to take control of the situation by prioritizing your dental health. Although we cannot completely prevent oral cancer, we can engage in habits that help your teeth, bones, and gums remain as healthy as possible. These practices include:
1. Avoid tobacco. It doesn’t matter whether you’re using cigarettes, pipes, cigars, or you sniff or chew it, tobacco use is closely linked to mouth cancer because the chemicals contained with the tobacco itself interact with the cells in your body in dangerous ways.
2. Cut back on the alcohol. Alcohol irritates the particles in your mouth. Though it is perfectly fine to have a drink now and then, overdoing it can be harmful not just to your mouth, but to your liver as well.
3. Protect your lips. The sun is good for you, but, just like tobacco, alcohol, and sugar too much of one thing is not. Wearing a hat, staying in the shade, and using sunscreen lip balm will all protect you from the harsh UV rays.
4. Clean your teeth every day. Brushing at least twice a day and flossing at least once are simple yet extremely effective things that you can do to preserve your hygiene. Cleaning your smile gets rid of acid, bacteria, and other debris, stopping it from amalgamating on your smile and contributing to tooth decay, gum disease, and, of course, oral cancers.
5. Attend oral cancer screenings. This is a specific type of dental examination that is performed by your dentist to determine whether potential signs of cancer are present. They’ll begin by physically assessing your oral cavity and feeling along your jaw and down your neck. X-rays will be taken to see what’s happening beneath your gums and with your bones. You’ll be given a blue dye as well; areas that become stained may be cancerous. A special light can be utilized too.
Once your screening is over, your dentist will give you the results. If there are potential warning signs, they will most likely recommend undergoing additional tests with a cancer specialist. A biopsy is one of the most common processes.
At Forest Lake Family Dental, We’re Here to Help You!
Interested in booking an oral cancer screening near you? Give our staff a call, fill out the request form on our website, or drop by our dental office to select a day and time that works best with your busy schedule. We look forward to walking with you on your dental journey.