April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month. Contrary to what many people believe, oral cancer is not one singular kind of cancer. Instead, oral cancer refers to any of the cancers that develop on your lips, cheeks, mouth, sinuses, or throat. Like most other cancers, your cells mutate and fail to follow their instructions; instead, they grow and divide uncontrollably. Also, as with most cancers, the exact causes are unknown, some significant risk factors have been identified, and early detection is crucial to successful treatment.

4 Biggest Risk Factors for Developing Oral Cancer

The four most significant risk factors that increase your risk of oral cancer are:

1. Tobacco Use: Cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and chewing tobacco all significantly increase the risk of oral cancer.
2. Heavy Alcohol Use: While an occasional drink is insignificant, heavy alcohol consumption is another major oral cancer risk factor.
3. HPV: Certain types of the human papillomavirus (HPV) increase the risk of oral cancer.
4. Sun Exposure: Regular exposure to sunlight, especially on your lips, can increase oral cancer risk.

Early Signs of Oral Cancer

What signs should you be looking out for? A few early signs that you should be checked out include:

• Sores on your lips or mouth that don’t heal after two weeks
• Bleeding in your mouth that you can’t explain
• Numbness or pain inside your mouth or on your tongue
• A lump or thickening in your cheek
• White or red patches inside your mouth, on your gums, tongue, or tonsils
• A persistent feeling like you’ve got something caught in your throat

Because time is of the essence in cancer treatment, do not delay getting examined if you notice any of these symptoms. Additionally, having dental exams twice a year is a good way to screen for early signs of oral cancer. Your dentist can examine your face and mouth for any symptoms and recommend further evaluation if they feel it is warranted.

Oral Cancer Treatments

Every cancer has its own treatment plan, depending on the patient’s stage, size, location, and health. With oral cancers, the typical treatments include removing the cancerous cells, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.

Oral Cancer Prevention

You can reduce your risks by avoiding tobacco products, reducing alcohol consumption, protecting your lips, and avoiding HPV infection through vaccination. Furthermore, you should learn about oral cancer and its various forms to better understand how it may develop or appear. Knowing your own individual risk factors is an important step toward prevention.

Additional Resources

• The Oral Cancer Foundation 
• Cancer Council — Mouth Cancer
• American Cancer Society — Oral Cavity and Oralphalaryngeal Cancer

Schedule a Dental Wellness Visit to Screen for Oral Cancer and Other Issues

Dr. Ania Mohelicki is passionate about promoting well-being in every aspect of her practice. You can contact our office in Boulder, CO, at 303-443-0998 or contact us here to schedule an appointment.

As a member of the American Dental Association (ADA), Academy of General Dentistry, International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology ( IAOMT ), and several other prestigious organizations, Dr. Mohelicki is a highly experienced professional who can help you prioritize your oral health with a personalized treatment plan.

At first glance, you might not think there is a connection between your oral health and mental health. However, your oral health can significantly impact your emotions and expressiveness. By investing in proper dental care, patients can enhance not only their smiles but their entire mental outlook.

At our practice, Dr. Ania Mohelicki combines the art and science of general and cosmetic dentistry to help patients live happier, healthier lives.

How Your Oral Health Can Affect Your Mental Health

Poor teeth alignment, chronic bad breath, and tooth loss are examples of oral health conditions that can affect people emotionally. It’s not uncommon for people with cosmetic dental issues to become self-conscious about their smile, even going so far as to avoid interacting with others to avoid fear of judgment.

Dental issues can also impact speech and one’s ability to chew. In turn, they may be less likely to engage with others, avoid eating in social settings, and become more withdrawn to mask their struggles.

Patients who live with chronic pain from oral health problems can also develop symptoms of depression and even insomnia. This can have a domino effect on their productivity levels, relationships, and self-esteem.

The American Psychiatric Association investigated the connection between oral and mental health and found that mental illness can lead to oral health problems. On the other hand, poor oral health can further contribute to depression and anxiety in some patients.

Can Dental Treatment Improve Your Psychological Well-being?

If you struggle with self-consciousness over your smile, then cosmetic dentistry could potentially help you feel more confident in your appearance. For patients whose dental issues have led to ongoing physical pain or challenges with speech and eating, as well as facial asymmetry or jaw collapse, dental care could help not only restore function but your smile as well.

Many patients dealing with depression and anxiety stemming from oral health conditions tend to find their mental health improves with the proper treatment.

A Holistic Approach to Oral Health

By working with a dentist who recognizes the connection between your oral health and well-being, you can experience greater benefits from any treatment you receive. Dr. Mohelicki is passionate about helping every patient achieve their greatest health through the highest quality of dental care.

An associate of multiple prestigious dental organizations, her commitment to improving her practice ensures her patients always receive the greatest care.

Please contact us today or call 303-872-9940 to request a consultation today.