Oral cancer is a health issue that presents many challenges to oral health in the immediate and long term for patients who experience it. At Distinctive Smiles in Baton Rouge, we work with patients to prevent, identify, and treat oral cancer whenever necessary. We hope patients will read the following guide so they may understand the best strategies for preventing oral cancer, and how it can be treated if it is identified. 

What are Contributing Factors?

As with all cancers, the risk of developing oral cancer can be increased by a number different components. A well-known factor is tobacco consumption, whether this occurs as cigars, cigarettes, or chewing tobacco. Other common considerations are the lack of a balanced diet, chronic infection throughout soft tissues, and overexposure to radiation through sunlight or other sources. 

Positive Steps You Can Take

While this condition has significant potential to cause harm, there are a number of steps you can take to curb your chances of oral cancer. Keeping within the following guidelines will not only enhance your chances of better oral health but will enhance your systemic health in the long term.
A Balanced Diet: Introducing a variety of fruits and vegetables into your diet is an easy step you can take to increase oral health. These foods contain a variety of vitamins and antioxidants that decrease the chance of cell mutation in your mouth’s soft tissues. 

Drop Harmful Habits: Consumers of tobacco can improve their oral health by eliminating their habits entirely. Dropping any smoking and chewing habits can show dramatic health improvements in both the short and long term. Alcohol consumption should also be curbed in order to decrease the likelihood of oral cancer. 

Avoid Excessive Sun on Your Lips: Mouth cancer is not limited to the interior tissues of the mouth, and can even be caused by excess UV radiation exposure to the lips. Keeping yourself properly shaded and applying sunscreen regularly can ensure that you remain healthy. Many lip balms are infused with sunscreen, allowing for simple and easy coverage. 

See Your Dentist Regularly: Dentists like Dr. Sancerie O’Rourke-Allen perform regular oral cancer screenings for patients. These screenings ensure that patients who are experiencing early signs of oral cancer can be treated before this condition requires more invasive forms of treatment. 

Contact Distinctive Smiles of Baton Rouge today to schedule your oral cancer screening. We are committed to providing patients with thorough examinations to identify and treat early signs of oral cancer before they present a significant health threat to patients. If you are experiencing moderate or advanced signs of oral cancer, we will work with you to find treatment through qualified medical professionals. 

 

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