Oral Cancer Prevention

Oral cancer, also known as mouth cancer, affects nearly 35,000 Americans each year and kills around 8,000. While oral cancer may occur at any age and affects both men and women, it is most common in men over 40. Oral cancer can begin almost anywhere in the mouth- this includes the teeth, tongue, gums, top of the mouth, bottom of the mouth, inside and outside linings of the lips, inside linings of the cheeks, and sometimes even near the top of the throat. It is important to prevent oral cancer as a healthy mouth and oral cavity are essential for a healthy, functioning body. Below are some ideas to help reduce the risk of oral cancer. You may already be incorporating some of the ideas into you own life. Read on for our thoughts:

Tobacco use is the primary cause of oral cancer in both men and women and should be avoided. Tobacco use not only includes smoking cigarretes, but also cigars and pipes. Chewing tobacco may also cause cancer. It is best to not start using tobacco, but if you are a user, consult with your dentist or doctor to determine the best treatment plan available to help lessen or eliminate your use of tobacco.

Your risk for oral cancer increases with the amount of beer, liquor, or wine consumed per day. Someone that drinks three to four alcoholic beverages per day has an oral cancer risk that is twice that of someone that does not consume alcohol. To reduce your alcohol use, consult with a doctor or review treatment centers or groups in your area.

Sunlight exposure may increase the risk of mouth or lip cancer. Make sure you wear a protective chapstick or lotion when in the sun, especially for extended periods. And, Prevent the growth of bacteria and diseases in your mouth by brushing at least two times a day and floss regularly. Make sure to incorporate healthy foods into your diet and start or maintain an exercise routine. With the right mindset and determination, you can equip your body with the best tools possible to help prevent oral cancer.

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Should you See a Restorative Dentist?

How do you feel about your teeth? Are you confident with your smile? Do your teeth feel healthy? These are the types of questions you should ask yourself if you are considering a restorative dentist. By definition, a restorative dentistdiagnoses and manages dental structures and also helps treat certain dental diseases. Restorative dentists focus on improving teeth and jaw functionality and the aesthetics. Different treatment options are available to accommodate a wide variety of patients as well as different teeth and mouth types. Here are some questions you can ask yourself in making the decision to improve your health.

What is chewing like? Compared to 10 years ago, is it easier to chew all foods, about the same, or more difficult? Do you worry about chewing certain foods? If eating has become increasingly difficult, a consultation with a restorative dentist may help. A restorative dentist can discuss treatment options — like crowns, fixed dentures, immediate dentures, complete dentures or others. These devices may help eating more effective and pleasurable again.

 

What is it like to talk? Like chewing, compare your ability to talk to how it was like 10 years ago. Is it more difficult to say certain words? If your teeth are misshapen, this condition can make it more of a challenge to say certain words. Better-shapen teeth may help you pronounce all words with much more ease.

How do you feel about yourself? If you are proud to show off your smile to others, then it is possible that your teeth may be in great shape. However, if you are embarrassed about your teeth and prefer to hide your smile, these actions may be a sign that something else is wrong. Feel free to talk to a restorative dentist about your smile and confidence and you may be surprised at the options — like veneers, bridges, crowns, and fillings — are available.

Even if your teeth feel healthy, there is a chance that an unknown condition may be lurking in the background, especially if a family history exists. If any questions linger about the structure or health of your teeth, contact a restorative dentist and learn how your life may improve.