Risk Factors for Oral Cancer

• Tobacco use: Smoking cigarettes, cigars, pipes, or using smokeless tobacco increases the risk of oral cancer. The harmful chemicals in these products can damage cells in the mouth and lead to cancerous growths.
• Heavy alcohol consumption: Excessive drinking not only damages liver function but also increases the likelihood of developing oral cancer. Alcohol weakens the cells lining the mouth and throat, making them more susceptible to carcinogens.
• HPV infection: Certain strains of human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection, have been linked to an increased risk of oral cancer. Practicing safe sex and getting vaccinated against HPV can help reduce this risk.
• Poor diet: A lack of fruits and vegetables in your diet can contribute to the development of oral cancer. These nutrient-rich foods provide antioxidants that help protect against cell damage.
• Sun exposure: Prolonged exposure to sunlight without protection can increase the risk of lip cancer. Using lip balm with SPF and wearing a wide-brimmed hat when outdoors can reduce this risk.

Remember that while these factors may increase your chances of developing oral cancer, they do not guarantee its development. It's important to be aware of these risks so you can take steps to minimize them through healthier lifestyle choices and regular screenings by a dental professional specializing in oral health.

What to Expect During an Oral Cancer Screening?

During an oral cancer screening, your dentist or oral healthcare provider will thoroughly examine your mouth to check for any signs of oral cancer. This is a crucial part of preventive healthcare and can help in the early detection and treatment of this disease.

The screening usually involves a visual examination where the dentist will look for any abnormalities such as sores, red or white patches, or lumps in your mouth. They may also feel your neck and jaw area to check for any swollen lymph nodes. In some cases, additional tests may be performed during the screening. One common test is called toluidine blue staining, where a special dye is applied to the inside of your mouth. The areas that absorb the dye more intensely could indicate abnormal cells that need further investigation. Another method used in screenings is VELscope technology. This device emits a harmless blue light that helps highlight potentially harmful tissue changes that are not visible under normal light.

An oral cancer screening is painless and quick – it usually takes only a few minutes. It's important to remember that regular screenings play a key role in detecting oral cancer at its earliest stage when it's most treatable.