Important Tips Before  You Take  Oral Cancer Screening

Stay Away from Tobacco

The longer you have been using tobacco the higher your risk of head and neck cancer. This will be the case even if you have been using smokeless tobacco because either variety has a direct role in causing these cancers. You should stay away from Tobacco in all forms including chewing, smokeless, snuff, and any variety because they all have chemicals that can damage the genes protecting against cancer.

Consume Alcohol in Moderation

Consuming alcohol excessively will expose you to a similar risk as smoking because alcohol can play a role in changing the chemistry of the body and breaking down its defenses against cancer. You should certainly be avoiding excessive alcohol and stick with moderation. Combining excessive alcohol with tobacco can compound the effect of the damage these two can cause.

Visiting Your Dentist Regularly

Cancers or precancerous lesions are often detected by dentists or dental hygienists. They do so when conducting routine examinations and cleaning and often refer the patient to an ENT specialist or an oncologist. If the specialists confirm the diagnosis they can provide treatment immediately to increase the chances of eliminating cancer.

Getting Vaccinated for HPV

HPV 16 has a strong association with oropharyngeal cancers especially those located at the back of the mouth. Oropharyngeal cancers have minimal symptoms and often occur in men in their 40s or 50s. HPV can be prevented easily by getting vaccinated before males become sexually active. Vaccines are now available against two strains of HPV and are therefore recommended for individuals between the ages of 11 to 26.

Shielding Your Lips from the Sun

If after following the tips suggested and visiting a dentist for oral cancer screening, you will be happy to understand that you have adequate protection in your favor and are not affected by any of the problems.

Want to know more about getting oral cancer screenings? Check out our dental care blogs about oral cancer screening to know more:

Visit our dentist near you at SS Dental to know more about getting oral cancer screening in Plano, TX!

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