At La Luxe Dental, we understand that early detection of oral cancer can significantly increase the chances of successful treatment. During your comprehensive dental examination, our skilled team is trained to look for the early signs of oral cancer. While everyone is at risk, certain factors can increase the likelihood of developing oral cancer. Here are the key risk factors that you should be aware of when it comes to oral cancer.

1. Age

As you age, your risk of developing oral cancer increases. The majority of cases are diagnosed in people over the age of 62, though the average age of diagnosis is decreasing due to a rise in HPV-related oral cancers. In fact, those in their 50s and 60s are more likely to be diagnosed with oral cancer related to the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). Regardless of your age, it’s important to schedule regular oral cancer screenings with a dentist near Northeast Washington to catch any issues early.

2. Gender

Oral cancer is more common in men than women, with men being twice as likely to be diagnosed. This difference may be linked to higher rates of alcohol and tobacco use among men. However, this gender gap is narrowing as more women are now smoking and drinking alcohol. Both men and women should prioritize oral health exams to detect oral cancer at its earliest stages.

3. Tobacco Use

Tobacco use, whether smoking or chewing, is one of the leading causes of oral cancer. Smoking and smokeless tobacco increase the risk of cancer in the mouth, gums, lips, and throat. The risk rises with the length of time and frequency of tobacco use. Non-smokers should also be aware that oral cancer can still occur, which is why regular checkups with a dentist near Northeast Washington are essential for everyone.

4. Alcohol Consumption

Heavy drinking is another major risk factor for oral cancer. Individuals who drink heavily, defined as two or more drinks per day for men and one or more for women, are more than twice as likely to develop oral cancer. Even if you don’t drink, regular screenings are still important, as oral cancer can occur in people without a history of alcohol consumption.

5. Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

HPV, a sexually transmitted infection, has been linked to oral cancers, particularly in younger individuals. Those diagnosed with HPV-related oral cancers tend to be at lower risk of recurrence or death from the disease. Regular dental visits are essential for early detection and prevention, especially since many HPV-related oral cancers are diagnosed in people who do not smoke or drink.

6. Sun Exposure

Excessive exposure to sunlight, especially on the lips, increases the risk of lip cancer. If you spend a lot of time outdoors, use lip balm with UV protection to safeguard your health. If you work outside frequently, it’s a good idea to schedule more frequent checkups with your dentist near Northeast Washington.

7. Diet

A diet lacking in fruits and vegetables can increase the risk of developing oral cancer. A balanced diet rich in vitamins and nutrients supports overall oral health, but even those with healthy diets should not skip regular dental checkups.

Oral cancer affects everyone, regardless of risk factors. Regular dental examinations are the best way to detect oral cancer early, and our team at La Luxe Dental is here to help. Contact us today to schedule your comprehensive oral examination. Early detection can save lives.