April is Oral Cancer Month. And one of the scariest diagnoses a person can hear is “cancer.” One type of cancer that people battle is oral cancer. As dentists, we put a high premium on the importance of dental hygiene in maintaining healthy teeth and gums. But this isn’t just because of our profession. In fact, what many people may not realize is that poor dental hygiene can lead serious conditions, including oral cancer.
Mouth Cancer
Oral cancer refers to any cancer that develops in the mouth, throat, or tongue. According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, over 53,000 Americans will be diagnosed with oral cancer this year, and over 10,000 will die from the disease. Although oral cancer can be caused by a variety of factors, poor dental hygiene is a significant contributor.
Leading Causes of Mouth Cancer
When you fail to brush and floss regularly, plaque and tartar can build up on your teeth and gums. This can lead to gum disease, which is a serious infection that can damage the soft tissue and bones that support your teeth. Not only can gum disease cause tooth loss and other oral health problems, but it has also been linked to oral cancer.
Genetics & Cancer
One of the reasons for this link is that gum disease can cause chronic inflammation in the mouth, which can damage DNA and other genetic material in the cells of the oral cavity. This can lead to mutations that can ultimately result in cancer. In addition, gum disease can also weaken the immune system, making it more difficult for the body to fight off cancer cells.
Another factor that contributes to the link between poor dental hygiene and oral cancer is the presence of the human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a common sexually transmitted infection that can cause various types of cancer, including oral cancer. Although not all cases of cancer of the mouth are caused by HPV, studies have shown that people with poor dental hygiene are more likely to be infected with the virus.
Signs of Oral Cancer
It is important to note that oral cancer does not always present with obvious symptoms. In fact, many people with oral cancer do not experience symptoms until the disease has progressed to an advanced stage. So, be sure to pay attention to the warning signs of mouth cancer:
- A sore or ulcer in the mouth that doesn’t heal within two weeks.
- Persistent pain in the mouth or throat
- Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or speaking.
- A lump or thickening in the cheek, tongue, or throat.
- Red or white patches on the gums, tongue, or lining of the mouth.
What to Do
If you experience any of these symptoms, see a dentist or doctor as soon as possible. Early detection is key to successful treatment of oral cancer. In addition to practicing good dental hygiene, there are several other steps you can take to reduce your risk of mouth cancer:
- Limit alcohol consumption
- Quit smoking or using tobacco products.
- Eat a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
- Use a lip balm with SPF to protect your lips from the sun’s harmful rays.
Overall, it’s clear that good dental hygiene is about more than just having a pretty smile. By taking care of your teeth and gums, you can also reduce your risk of developing serious health conditions like oral cancer. So be sure to brush and floss regularly, and don’t hesitate to see your dentist if you notice any unusual symptoms in your mouth or throat. Your health may depend on it.
About Dr Fred Wong of Blue Ocean Dentistry in Glendora, California
Fred Wong and the staff at Blue Ocean Dentistry use the latest available dental treatments, and materials. Everything we use makes a marked difference in our patients’ experiences. We help our patients achieve optimal dental health. We creatively combine dental science and artistry — which can literally redesign your smile. Since even a subtle change in your smile will help you to project self-confidence and high self-esteem, we love helping you feel good about yourself. We deliver the finest dental care at the most reasonable cost and accept most dental insurance plans as well as CareCredit. For more about the dental treatment plans we offer or to schedule an appointment, call today (626) 852-6999.