Oral cancer is a disease resulting from abnormal cell growth in the mouth, lips, tongue or throat. People over the age of 45 are most at risk.
The good news is that oral cancer can be treated successfully if caught early enough.
Your dentist has the expert skill and training to detect early signs of the disease and can help you to understand your risks.
To help prevent oral cancer:
- See your dentist regularly for dental exams and ask about oral cancer screenings.
- Stop using tobacco products – ask your dentist about tools to help you quit.
- Limit alcohol consumption.
- Limit sun exposure and use U/V protective lip balms.
- Eat a healthy diet with lots of fruits and vegetables.
- Check your mouth regularly for signs or symptoms and report any changes in your mouth to your dentist right away.
