Maintaining health involves looking after our teeth and mouth through practices, like teeth brushing and flossing regularly, as well as visiting the dentist near you when needed and other related activities to ensure a healthy mouth. Good oral hygiene benefits our mouths, whereas lack of proper oral hygiene results in a number of problems. One serious problem that can arise from poor oral hygiene is oral cancer.
What is Oral Cancer?
Oral cavity cancer is a type of cancer that can affect any part of the mouth. These parts are the lips, feet of the tongue, cheeks, gums, and the roof or floor of the mouth. Oral cancer is categorized as a condition in which some cells of the mouth do not develop as they should. These cells can grow rapidly and produce tumour masses or ulcers that will not resolve themselves.
Warning Signs of Oral Cancer
It’s essential to know what signs to watch out for in the mouth. Some common warning signs include:
● Sores, or lumps that fail to heal within two weeks
● Red or white spots on the tongue or gums
● Feeling pain or numbness in any area of the mouth.
● Having trouble with chewing or swallowing food or moving your jaw or tongue
● Changes in voice or a sore throat that doesn’t go away
If you experience any of these symptoms, then you should visit the dentist for checkups.
How Bad Oral Hygiene Affect Oral Health?
If we do not maintain proper oral hygiene, there are bad bacteria that can accumulate in our mouth. Some of these bacteria produce plaque, which is a thin film that develops on the teeth. Plaque not cleaned by brushing and flossing forms a substance known as tartar, which is hard and sticks to the tooth surface. Plaque buildup is easier to remove, while tartar is more difficult to clean, and if it is not treated, it leads to gum disease.
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, starts with gingivitis. Gingivitis is the initial phase of gum disease in which the gums turn red, become tender, and are prone to bleeding. If left untreated, it could advance to periodontitis, a severe form of gum disease involving damage to the bones supporting your teeth and potentially resulting in tooth loss.
Connection Between Gum Disease and Oral Cancer
Now, let us discuss the correlation between gum disease and oral cancer. As per studies, it is found that those who have gum disease are more susceptible to oral cancer than persons who do not have the disease. This is because the bacteria that cause gum disease can easily get into the bloodstream and spread to other parts of the body. Prolonged bacteria and inflammation may also eliminate healthy cells, and this may be a cause of cancer.
Other Risks Linked to Poor Oral Hygiene
In addition to gum disease, there are other risk factors for oral cancer linked to poor oral hygiene:
● Tobacco use: The use of tobacco in any form has been known to cause problems in the mouth. This also reduces immunity and makes it possible for cancer-causing diseases to progress to the next stage.
● Alcohol consumption: Alcohol is also a problem since it can make the lining of the mouth and throat become irritated, which can make it easier for cancer to form.
● Human papillomavirus (HPV): This virus is often linked to oral cancer. Poor oral hygiene and oral HPV infection can interact to increase cancer risk.
● Unhealthy diet: A balanced diet is important, and a lack of healthy foods leads to the weakening of the immune system. Such immunity cannot protect from infections or fight cancerous cells from developing throughout the body.
Importance of Regular Dental Check-Ups
One of the effective ways to keep your mouth healthy is to visit the dentist regularly. Dentists can detect problems early, even before you notice them. They can clean your teeth and gums deeply, removing plaque and tartar you might miss. Regular check-ups are crucial. They allow the dentist to look for signs of gum disease, oral cancer, and other health issues.
How to Keep a Healthy Mouth and Lower Cancer Risks?
To reduce the risk of oral cancer and other mouth problems, it’s essential to follow good oral hygiene habits. Here are a few simple steps:
● Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. This helps remove bacteria and plaque that can cause damage.
● Floss daily to clear food particles and plaque from between your teeth which the toothbrush can’t reach.
● Visit the dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings. The dentist can detect and treat any early signs of gum disease, tooth decay, and more.
● Limit or avoid tobacco and alcohol use. Both increase the risk of cancer and can damage mouth tissues.
● Have a balanced diet with lots of fruits and vegetables, which can help strengthen your immune system and keep your mouth healthy.
Protect Your Smile, Prevent Oral Cancer Today!
At Somba Ké Family Dental, we’re dedicated to helping you maintain a healthy smile for life. Our dentist in Yellowknife are dedicated to providing quality dental care, encompassing preventive dentistry as well as early intervention. We believe that regular and proper dental checkups would help prevent problems such as oral cancer. By keeping your teeth and gums in great shape, we help protect your smile and your health. Visit us at Somba Ké Family Dental to start your journey to a brighter, healthier smile today!