Cancer is a scary word, but did you know you can lower your risk? Head, neck, and oral cancers can be prevented by making simple lifestyle changes. That’s why our dentist in Sacramento is here to help you understand how to protect yourself.
If you notice changes in the comfort or appearance of your mouth, contact Timothy E. Mickiewicz, D.D.S., as soon as possible. The quicker you get professional help, the sooner you can restore your oral health. Give our dentist in Sacramento, CA, a call at (916) 469-9178 for an oral cancer screening now.
In today’s blog, our dentist in Sacramento explores the causes of head, neck, and oral cancers while also giving you six ways to reduce your risk!
What Causes Head, Neck, and Oral Cancers?
Head, neck, and oral cancers can develop when cells grow uncontrollably in areas like the mouth, throat, and voice box. These cancers can be life-threatening if not caught early.
Our dentist in Sacramento wants you to know the common risk factors:
- Tobacco Use: All tobacco products (yes, including smokeless tobacco) are the biggest causes of these cancers
- Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Enjoying too much alcohol can damage cells and make cancer more likely
- HPV Infection: Human papillomavirus (HPV) can lead to certain types of oral and throat cancers
- Poor Oral Hygiene: Not taking care of your mouth can increase your risk.
- Sun Exposure: Too much sunlight and not enough SPF protection can lead to lip cancer
- Weak Immune System: A weak immune system makes it harder for your body to fight off harmful changes in cells
Now, let’s look at six ways to lower your chances of developing these cancers.
1. Quit Smoking and Tobacco Use
Tobacco is one of the leading causes of head, neck, and oral cancers. In fact, tobacco use effectively doubles your risk of developing these cancers.
If you smoke or use tobacco, quitting is the best thing you can do for your health. Our dentist in Sacramento can help you find resources like nicotine patches, support groups, and other methods to stop smoking for good.
When you quit smoking, your body starts healing almost immediately. Within a few months, your lung function improves. Over the years, your risk of cancer continues to drop. It’s never too late to quit!
2. Limit Alcohol Consumption
Alcohol in any quantity damages cells and increases cancer risk. Our dentist in Sacramento recommends abstaining or drinking sparingly (current guidelines suggest one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men).
Excessive alcohol use also increases the risk of liver disease, high blood pressure, and other health problems. Mixing alcohol with tobacco makes the risk of cancer even higher. Choosing non-alcoholic alternatives like flavored water or herbal tea can be a great way to reduce your intake.
3. Get Vaccinated Against HPV
HPV is a common virus that can cause oral and throat cancers. Our dentist in Sacramento suggests getting the HPV vaccine to protect yourself. The vaccine is safe and effective, and it can help prevent many cases of cancer.
HPV spreads through close contact, including kissing and sexual activity. Many people don’t even know they have the virus because it often has no symptoms. By getting vaccinated, you not only protect yourself but also help prevent the spread of HPV to others.
4. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Gum disease, cavities, and infections can weaken your immune system and increase your risk of cancer. Our dentist in Sacramento says brushing twice a day and flossing once a day removes harmful bacteria, keeping your smile healthy as you age.
Regular dental checkups with Dr. Mickiewicz can help catch problems early before they turn into major problems.
5. Protect Your Lips from the Sun
Too much sun exposure can lead to cancerous growth on the face and lips. Our dentist in Sacramento recommends wearing sunscreen, using lip balm with SPF, wearing a hat, and staying in the shade when possible.
Many people forget that their lips can get sunburned. If you spend a lot of time outdoors, reapplying lip balm with SPF every two hours can help.
6. Know the Warning Signs and Get Checked Regularly
Early detection saves lives! Our dentist in Sacramento wants you to watch for these warning signs:
- Sores in your mouth that don’t go away
- Lumps or nodules in your neck or mouth
- Difficulty swallowing or pain when swallowing
- White or red patches in your mouth
If you notice any of these symptoms, see our dentist in Sacramento right away.
Regular screenings with Dr. Mickiewicz can catch cancer early, when it’s easiest to treat. Our dentist in Sacramento will check your mouth, throat, and neck for any unusual signs. If something looks suspicious, they may refer you to a specialist for further tests.
The Importance of a Healthy Lifestyle
Our dentist in Sacramento believes that a healthy lifestyle can make a huge difference in cancer prevention. So, try to:
- Eat a balanced diet with lots of fruits and vegetables to help your body fight disease.
- Exercise regularly to keep your immune system strong.
- Drink plenty of water to flush toxins from your body.
- Manage stress to protect your immune system.
How a Dentist in Sacramento Can Help
Our dentist in Sacramento is not just someone who cleans your teeth. Dr. Mickiewicz plays a big role in checking for early signs of cancer. He can spot warning signs that you might not notice and give you advice on how to protect yourself.
If you smoke, drink heavily, or have a history of HPV, regular dental visits are even more important. Our dentist in Sacramento can help you create a plan to reduce your risk and keep your mouth healthy.
Protect Yourself – Visit a Dentist in Sacramento, CA, Today
Timothy E. Mickiewicz, D.D.S., is here to help you stay healthy and cancer-free. By making small changes and visiting our dentist in Sacramento yearly, you can lower your risk of head, neck, and oral cancers.
If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Mickiewicz here or call us at (916) 469-9178 to request an oral cancer screening today. Stay safe and take care of your smile!
