April is the month dedicated to raising public awareness about oral cancer, its risk factors, and how to act during treatment.
Why regular dental check-ups are important
Every dental visit should include an examination not only of your teeth and gums but also a thorough inspection of the entire oral mucosa. During this exam, the dentist will check the lining of your cheeks, lips, tongue, palate, and floor of the mouth.
Additionally, dentists should pay attention to any unusual changes on the skin of the head and neck and advise patients accordingly, even though these areas are not part of oral cancer.
Early detection saves lives
Early diagnosis of oral cancer significantly improves treatment success rates. This is why it’s recommended to visit your dentist once or twice a year.
Any lesion in the oral mucosa that lasts longer than two weeks, bleeds easily, or is caused by irritation from ill-fitting dentures or fillings should be evaluated promptly.
How to reduce your risk of oral cancer
1. Quit smoking
Smoking is the leading cause of oral cancer, especially affecting the tongue.
2. Avoid excessive alcohol consumption
Regular and heavy alcohol use increases the risk, especially when combined with smoking.
3. Protect your lips from sun exposure
Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause lip cancer due to UV radiation.
4. Replace ill-fitting dentures, crowns, and fillings
Chronic irritation of the oral mucosa increases the risk of cancer development.
5. Schedule an oral mucosa screening
If you have never had an oral mucosa examination, April is the perfect time to book one with your dentist.
Taking care of your oral health is taking care of your overall health
Regular oral hygiene and healthy habits protect you from oral cancer. Regular dental check-ups provide mucosal screening to detect any suspicious changes early.
If you or someone close to you is currently battling any type of cancer, you can read more about oral care during cancer treatment here.
