At Decatur Family Dentistry, we prioritize your overall health, and a crucial part of our comprehensive dental examinations includes screening for signs of oral cancer. Early detection significantly improves the chances of successfully treating oral cancer. Our dedicated dental team is trained to identify early signs, ensuring the best possible outcome for our patients.
Although anyone can develop oral cancer, certain factors can increase your risk. Here are the top seven risk factors for oral cancer to keep in mind.
1. Age Are you over 40? The likelihood of developing oral cancer increases with age. Statistics from the Cancer Treatment Centers of America reveal that most cases are diagnosed around age 62, though this average is decreasing. The rising prevalence of Human Papillomavirus (HPV)-related cancers has contributed to more diagnoses in individuals between the ages of 52 and 56. Regardless of your age, it is essential to schedule regular screenings with your Decatur dentist.
2. Gender Men are historically twice as likely to develop oral cancer compared to women. This could be partly due to higher consumption of alcohol and tobacco, though the gap is narrowing as more women engage in these habits. Additionally, younger men are increasingly being diagnosed with HPV-related oral cancer. Both men and women should visit their Decatur dentist regularly for preventive screenings.
3. Tobacco Use Whether through smoking or chewing, tobacco usage significantly elevates your risk of developing oral cancer. Cancers can form in the mouth, throat, gums, and the inner surfaces of the lips, depending on how often and how long tobacco products are used. Even non-smokers should be vigilant, as oral cancer can develop in anyone. Be sure to schedule your exam at Decatur Family Dentistry for a thorough evaluation.
4. Alcohol Consumption Approximately 70% of people diagnosed with oral cancer are classified as heavy drinkers. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), heavy drinking means consuming two or more drinks per day for men and one or more drinks per day for women. Heavy drinkers are more than twice as likely to develop oral cancers compared to non-drinkers. Even if you do not drink, you can still develop oral cancer, so routine checkups at Decatur Family Dentistry are vital.
5. Human Papillomavirus (HPV) HPV is responsible for at least 10,000 cases of oral cancer in the U.S. annually. Those diagnosed with HPV-related oral cancers tend to be younger and are less likely to smoke or drink. The prognosis for HPV-related cancers is generally more favorable, with lower death and recurrence rates. Proactively visiting your Decatur dentist for regular checkups can help detect any early signs of this type of cancer.
6. Sun Exposure Prolonged exposure to sunlight increases your risk of developing lip cancer. If you spend a lot of time outdoors, it’s essential to protect your lips with UV-blocking balms. Regular exams at Decatur Family Dentistry are crucial for monitoring any changes or abnormalities related to lip cancer.
7. Diet A poor diet can increase your risk of oral cancer. Studies by the American Dental Association have shown that diets low in fruits and vegetables are linked to a higher incidence of oral cancers. However, oral cancer can affect anyone, regardless of diet. It’s important to maintain regular visits to your Decatur dentist for comprehensive oral health checks.
Oral Cancer Screenings: A Key to Prevention
Oral cancer doesn’t discriminate. While these risk factors may elevate your chances, anyone can develop this condition, which is why regular dental exams are so critical. At Decatur Family Dentistry, we provide thorough oral cancer screenings to catch any early signs, offering you the best possible outcome. Contact us today to schedule your comprehensive dental exam with our experienced team.