This year, over 50,000 Americans will be diagnosed with oral or throat cancer. These cancers are known to have a higher death rate than other common cancers, including testicular cancer and skin cancer. The reason the death rate for oral and throat cancers is so much higher is that oral and throat cancers are relatively painless in the early stages and can go easily undetected. This allows the cancer to spread and become more aggressive. However, if caught early, the survival rate increases to 80+%. Ensuring safe dental care involves being aware of critical health concerns like oral cancer and the importance of regular screenings. Recognising the signs of oral cancer early and undergoing routine oral cancer screenings are essential steps for effective treatment and better outcomes. Although oral cancer can be serious, early detection greatly improves the chances of recovery. To receive safe dental care, it’s important to understand what causes oral cancer, be alert to its symptoms, know the risk factors, follow prevention methods, and prioritize early diagnosis through professional screenings.

Want to Know if You’re at Risk of Developing Oral or Throat Cancer?

The impact of oral health on overall well-being is often underestimated. Poor dental habits can lead to issues that affect not just your mouth, but your entire body. Here are the five factors that are most likely to increase your risk. Each of these can contribute to serious dental problems and affect your overall health, making prevention and early care essential.

Heavy Use of Tobacco Products

Frequently smoking tobacco products like cigarettes, cigars, a pipe, and/or chewing tobacco can significantly elevate your risk of developing oral cancer. Tobacco introduces harmful carcinogens directly into the oral cavity, leading to cellular damage over time. According to health experts, oral cancer symptoms often develop silently in tobacco users, making regular dental checkups essential. If you currently use tobacco in any form, consider cessation programs and consult with your dentist for oral cancer screening services.

Frequent Consumption of Alcohol

According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, alcohol abuse (more than 21 drinks in one week) is the second most significant risk factor for oral cancer. When combined with tobacco use, alcohol increases the absorption of harmful substances in the mucous membranes of the mouth, significantly escalating your cancer risk. Many people do not realize that the impact of alcohol on oral tissue can be just as damaging as tobacco. That’s why dentists recommend moderation in alcohol consumption to support oral health and cancer prevention.

Excessive Sun Exposure

In addition to increasing your risk of skin cancer, those who spend lots of time outdoors and do not use proper protection have a greater risk of developing lip cancer. The lips, especially the lower lip, are directly exposed to harmful UV rays, which can cause mutations in skin cells, leading to signs of oral cancer. Lip balm with SPF and wide-brimmed hats can help reduce sun exposure. If you notice persistent sores or changes on your lips, it may be time to consult a dentist for screening.

A History of Viral Infections

Exposure to the human papillomavirus (HPV) is known to increase your chances of developing oral cancer. HPV-related oral cancers are often found at the base of the tongue or in the tonsils and may not show obvious symptoms in the early stages. In recent years, the link between HPV and oral cancer has become more pronounced, making vaccination and awareness vital components of oral health and cancer prevention strategies.

Age

Unfortunately, oral cancer typically affects people over the age of 40. This is usually because of their longer exposure to other risk factors for oral cancer listed above. As we age, the cumulative impact of tobacco, alcohol, sun exposure, and viral infections becomes more significant. Adults over 40 need to undergo oral cancer checkup during routine dental exams, even if no symptoms are present.

Gender

Studies have found that oral cancer affects men twice as often as it does women. While the exact reasons remain under study, it’s believed that lifestyle choices such as higher tobacco and alcohol use among men contribute to the imbalance. Regular dental visits and preventive care can help bridge the gap in early detection, particularly among male patients.

Symptoms to Look For:

• Oral sores or irritations that don’t disappear within a couple of days
• Red or white patches on the tongue, cheeks, or lips
• Pain, tenderness, and/or numbness in the mouth or lips
• A noticeable change in your bite
• Trouble chewing, swallowing, speaking, or moving your jaw or tongue

These are the most common symptoms of oral cancer, but they’re not the only ones. Other warning signs might include:

• Persistent sore throat
• Hoarseness or voice changes
• Swelling of the jaw or neck
• Ear pain without infection
• Difficulty opening the mouth completely

These oral cancer symptoms can be linked to other health conditions as well, but when they persist, it’s crucial to seek professional evaluation. What causes oral cancer can vary, but once symptoms arise, immediate testing is key.

What Causes Oral Cancer?

Understanding what causes oral cancer can help with prevention efforts. While lifestyle factors like tobacco and alcohol are well-known culprits, other causes include viral infections and prolonged sun exposure. Preventive Dental Health Tips to reduce your risk include avoiding tobacco products, limiting alcohol intake, protecting your lips from the sun, maintaining good oral hygiene, and visiting your dentist regularly for screenings.

• Genetic predisposition
• Chronic irritation from dentures or rough teeth
• Immune system suppression
• A poor diet lacking in fruits and vegetables

An integrative approach that combines healthy lifestyle choices, oral hygiene, and screening can significantly lower one's risk. Schaumburg Dental Studio is committed to protecting our patients through proactive care. Our team stays updated with the latest technologies in oral cancer screening and works diligently to ensure our patients understand their risks, symptoms, and prevention methods.

If you or a loved one is experiencing any symptoms of oral cancer or if you fall into any risk factors for oral cancer, don’t wait. Schedule an oral exam today. Call us at 847-893-0884 or book your appointment online to receive expert care with compassion.