3 Common Myths About Oral Cancer

When it comes to mouth diseases, Oral Cancer is one of the most dangerous problems. However, you might have some misconceptions about oral cancer. For example, just because you do not smoke does not mean you are not at risk. Read on to help clear these myths up.

Myth: not many people get oral cancer

The Oral Cancer Foundation has made some estimates on the number of people likely to get this condition. In 2017, they estimated that oral and throat cancer were more common than stomach or cervical cancer. Throat and mouth cancers are the sixth most common types. Anyone can get it too.

The risk goes up after the age of 50. However, not all forms of oral cancer are related to a patient’s age. More and more young people are developing this condition. It may be because of a link between this condition and the human papillomavirus (HPV).

Myth: only smokers are at risk

Tobacco and nicotine use can increase a patient’s risk of oral cancer. However, non-smokers can also develop the condition. For example, HPV can increase a patient’s risk, as can alcohol. A big risk factor is using betel quid. This developed in South Asia and involves using the areca nut wrapped in a betel plant leaf. Genetics may also factor in the risk.

Even healthy patients may be at risk of the condition. Every adult should receive a at dental exams. The dentist can look at the tongue, mouth, lymph nodes and throat. The dentist will be looking for discoloration, sores and lumps in the area.

This is a noninvasive . It does not involve using radiation. If there are any signs of oral cancer, the dentist can do a biopsy. Part of the suspicious area will be sent off to a lab to be tested for oral cancer.

Myth: there is no way to prevent oral cancer

Oral cancer is not always easy to detect. In fact, some types of oral cancer happen in places that are hard to see. This can include the lymph nodes, back of the tongue and the tonsils. This is one reason why regular exams with the dentist are so important. Early treatment and diagnosis can help to stop the cancer as soon as it is noticed. This is likely to help increase the life expectancy of patients.

Patients can lower the risk of oral cancer in several ways. It is important to use sunscreen. That includes using a lip balm that has an SPF of at least 30. Limiting exposure to the sun is also a good idea. There are a few other ways that patients can lower their risk, including:

  • Avoiding smoking
  • Staying away from alcohol
  • Eating more vegetables

Get an oral cancer today

No matter what your age or your health status is, you may be at risk of oral cancer. It is not always easy to detect either. The good news is that a dentist can catch it early on. Making an appointment now may just save your life later.

Request an appointment here: https://hemetdentalcenter.com or call Hemet Dental Center: Brian Stiewel DDS, INC. at (951) 707-4366 for an appointment in our Hemet office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Oral Cancer in Hemet, CA.

Recent Posts

Signs And Symptoms Of Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease, or gum disease, can be incredibly concerning and lead to other, more severe oral health issues if left untreated for an extended amount of time. Consequently, it is important to fully understand the various signs and symptoms of periodontal disease in order to be able to spot periodontal disease as soon as it…

3 Tips For Preventing Gum Disease

The CDC states that gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is one of the leading oral infections in the United States. In addition, the National Institute of Health cites it as the most common culprit for adults losing teeth. Because the early stages of periodontal disease often do not have noticeable symptoms, many patients…

Is Gum Disease Preventable?

Gum disease is one of the most common oral health issues. Many individuals, however, are unaware that they are dealing with the condition. Gum disease is believed to affect millions of adults in the United States, according to the International Journal of Health Sciences. Many people who do not currently have gum disease may develop…

What You Should Know About Gum Disease

The CDC reports that almost half of adults in the United States have a form of gum disease, also known as periodontitis or periodontal disease. For adults over 65, this number increases to 70%. This rampant disease is largely preventable, yet the subtle signs and symptoms in the early stages leave many patients unaware that…

Hemet Dental Center: Brian Stiewel DDS, INC.

Share
Published by
Hemet Dental Center: Brian Stiewel DDS, INC.

Recent Posts

How Easy Can it Be to Get a Partial Denture for One Missing Tooth?

When many people lose a single tooth, they may be inclined to ignore it and…

1 day ago

Daily Oral Hygiene Tips from a Family Dentist

Many people prefer an electric toothbrush over a manual one because it helps scrub your…

5 days ago

3 Myths About Getting a Partial Denture for One Missing Tooth

A missing tooth due to an accident or gum disease can lead to embarrassment and…

6 days ago

Partial Denture for One Missing Tooth: How to Extend the Life of Your Partial Denture

For patients who want to replace a damaged or lost tooth without undergoing invasive dental…

1 week ago

Why You Should Consider a Partial Denture for One Missing Tooth

A partial denture for one missing tooth can improve the appearance of your smile in…

2 weeks ago

Partial Denture for One Missing Tooth: Recommended Daily Oral Regiment

According to the American Dental Association, over 120 million people in the U.S. are missing…

2 weeks ago