November Is Mouth Cancer Awareness Month – Are You At Risk?
We are passionate about helping our patients achieve long-lasting oral health. That’s why we encourage regular visits for oral hygiene exams and cleanings. During these visits, we clean your teeth and check for signs of decay, gum disease, and mouth cancer. November is Mouth Cancer Awareness Month, a time to promote knowledge about this form of cancer. Mouth cancer is a type of head and neck cancer that can be detected anywhere in the mouth and even on the lips. Read on to learn more about the risk factors and whether you may be at risk of developing this form of cancer.
What to Know About Mouth Cancer
While mouth cancer isn’t one of the most common cancers, it can still cause significant harm to both your oral and overall health if left undetected. It’s important to be aware of the choices that may increase your risk. Here are some key risk factors to keep in mind:
Tanning Beds and Sun Exposure
When thinking of mouth and oral cancer, your lips might not come to mind immediately. However, it’s very possible to develop mouth cancer on your lips, especially if you regularly use tanning beds or spend a lot of time in direct sunlight without lip protection. To reduce your risk, consider using lip balms that contain sunscreen. If you’re outdoors for long periods, wearing a hat can also help shield your lips from direct sun exposure.
Use of Tobacco Products
The harmful effects of smoking and chewing tobacco have been well known for years. These habits not only affect your overall health but also your oral health. Tobacco use is one of the leading risk factors for mouth cancer. Additionally, secondhand smoke can be dangerous for those around you, increasing their risk of health issues as well.
If you have any of the risk factors mentioned above, we encourage you to call our office in Meridian, ID, to schedule your next appointment. It’s important to prioritize your oral health, and we’re here to help ensure you’re up to date on cleanings and address any lingering treatments you may have postponed. Schedule an appointment soon so you can enjoy the upcoming holiday season worry-free. We hope to see you soon!
