As part of our general dentistry options at Jefferson Dental Care, we provide oral cancer screenings for all our patients. As your primary oral health specialists, we will screen for several cancers in your mouth and neck. We believe it is our responsibility to help ensure that oral cancer is detected and treated early. There are several frequently asked questions we hear when it comes to oral cancer.
- Does the risk of developing oral cancer increase with age?
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Yes, as you age you are at a greater risk of developing oral cancer. In addition to increased age, being a male can also make you twice as likely to develop it. The average age at diagnosis is 62.
- Does UV light cause oral cancer?
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People who work outside or have prolonged exposure to sunlight have an increased risk of developing cancers of the lip.
- Are there any lifestyle choices that promote oral cancer?
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Yes, smoking and tobacco use both increase your chances of developing oral cancer. Cancer in the mouth or throat are typically a result of smoking and cancer in the cheeks, gums and inner surface of your lips is typically a result of oral tobacco products. Heavy alcohol drinkers make up 70% of people diagnosed with oral cancer.
Contact Jefferson Dental Care today to speak to a team member about our oral health screening. We will listen to any concerns you may have about the development of cancer in or around your mouth.
Posted on behalf of Jefferson Dental Care
