Oral cancers are generally caused by chronic inflammation of the mucosal surfaces of the mouth, which induces mutations in the cells of the oral tissues, leading to cancer. The inflammation can be mechanical or chemical, viral or UV light. The most important method of prevention is the avoidance of the causes. The number one carcinogen is tobacco according to this expert cosmetic dentist in Staten Island. However, 25% of oral cancers occur in people who do not smoke and only drink occasionally. Look up dentist Chelmsford for more information from a dentist near you.
This is why you should drop by the dentist regularly for check-ups; for instance, check out this dentist available in oakbrook terrace il. The following are the most common risk factors known.
Tobacco
Smokers of cigarettes and pipes have been found to have six times the risk of developing oral cancers as nonsmokers. People who use chewing tobacco or snuff, run a risk that is 50 times higher than that of non-users.
- Cigarettes -Smoking is the number one cause of oral cancer. Over 70% of all oral and oropharyngeal cancers are related to tobacco. Even inhalation of second-hand smoke can raise your risk.
- Cigars – Because cigar smoke contains higher concentrations of nitrosamines, chemicals that are directly related to the development of oral cancer than does cigarette smoke, cigars are actually more of a danger.
- Pipes – Most pipe smokers tend to hold the pipe in their mouths, resulting in continuous contact of the pipe stem with the lips. As a consequence, pipes significantly increase the chances of lip cancer as well as mouth cancer.
- Chewing tobacco – Chewing tobacco is generally composed of either loose leaves or twists of tobacco. Cancers tend to develop in the areas where the chaw is held: between the cheek and the gum.
- Snuff – Snuff is ground-up tobacco that can be either moist or dry. The moist type, known as dipping tobacco, is placed between the cheek and gum like a chaw. The dry variety is sniffed up the nose. Both forms have been linked to oral cancers.
Alcohol
Excessive alcohol intake has also been shown to be a causative factor in oral cancer formation. When associated with tobacco, which it almost always is, the chances are increased significantly.
Too Much Sun Exposure
Lip cancers, just like skin cancers, are associated with a history of exposure to ultraviolet light, either from the sun or from tanning beds. Outdoor occupations, fair skin, use of tanning beds, and a history of many sunburns, all contribute to skin cancers and lip cancers, especially on the lower lip.
HPV Virus
Human papillomavirus is ubiquitous in the young population. Oral cancers due to HPV virus have been on the increase, especially in males. Infection can be prevented by getting the HPV vaccine in adolescence. The virus generally causes cancers in the tonsils and at the back of the tongue, secondary to sexual activity with an infected partner. The virus seems to cause less genetic damage than tobacco or other causes and has a better survival rate.
Poor Oral Hygiene
Tooth decay and chronic gum disease, known as gingivitis, have been linked to the development of oral cancers.
Methamphetamine
The abuse of methamphetamine is often apparent by the condition of the person’s mouth. Severe and pervasive tooth decay, gingivitis, missing and broken teeth, as well as erosions, are known as ‘meth mouth’ and indicate chronic abuse. There is evidence, linking ‘meth mouth’ to oral cancer
Betel Nut Use
Formerly confined to India, the chewing of betel nut seeds has traveled to America with immigrants. It is also a risk factor for oral cancer.
Symptoms & Prevention
- Swellings, rough or crusted areas, or erosions anywhere in the mouth.
- Sores in the mouth that do not heal.
- Reddish or white patches on the tongue, gums or cheeks.
- Difficulty swallowing, sometimes associated with pain.
- Ear pain.
The good news is that oral cancers have a high cure rate when detected early. An annual evaluation by a dentist should include an oral cancer screening. If you want to better control any possible risk you may have, practice the following tips:
- Stop smoking. Stop the use of all tobacco products.
- Use alcohol in moderation.
- Limit your sun exposure
- Use chapsticks with sun protection
- Avoid tanning beds.
- Use caution in choosing your sex partners.
- Use good oral hygiene.
- Avoid the use of methamphetamine.
In New York City, Dr. Marc Lazare offers an oral cancer screening at his Manhattan office. His evaluation includes a thorough check of the head and neck, which covers the face and lips. He palpates and inspects all aspects of the tongue, gums, cheeks and soft tissues inside the mouth. He also has other tools available, such as dyes and rinses, which help spotlight abnormalities. The ViziLite Plus Screening Test may also be used to identify areas that may need to be biopsied.
Oral cancers, when caught early, can be curable. If you, or someone you love, have any of the risk factors or symptoms of oral cancer, or even if you don’t, a yearly dental exam and oral cancer evaluation by Dr. Marc Lazare will protect you. Not only will the exam provide you peace of mind, but it will also improve your oral and dental health.
You can contact Dr. Lazare’s office at 212-861-2599. Set up an appointment today.