Did you know that Mouth Cancer Action Month is observed in November every year? In fact, oral cancer awareness is so important that the entire month of April is also devoted to this devastating disease. But, oral cancers deserve attention all year round. That’s why our family dentistry center in Oakbrook Terrace, IL, is here to help you assess your risk.
Has it been longer than three years since your last oral cancer screening? If so, then it’s time to reevaluate your risk with Dr. Peter L. Noto at Gallery Dental of Oakbrook. Schedule an exam and mouth cancer screening here, or call our office directly at (630) 620-8300 to request an appointment.
Meanwhile, take this simple quiz to see if you are at increased risk of developing mouth cancer. Understanding common risk factors can help you prevent the disease, which may help you save much more than your beautiful smile.
What is your sex?
- Female
- Male
Review Your Answer
According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), men are two times more likely to develop oral cancers than women. It is unclear exactly why men are more susceptible to mouth cancers, but experts believe that it may be due to certain behaviors, such as:
- Consistent tobacco use
- Heavy alcohol consumption
- Exposure to the human papillomavirus
Are you older than 40 years old?
- Yes
- No
Review Your Answer
Roughly 67% of all oral cancer cases can be found in patients over the age of 55.
For early detection, our Oakbrook Terrace dentist recommends:
- Oral cancer screenings every three years for patients under 40
- Yearly oral cancer screenings for patients aged 40 and older.
Do you use tobacco products (including smokeless)?
- Yes
- No
- Occasionally
Review Your Answer
Even occasional tobacco use can place patients at higher risk for all cancers, including lung and mouth cancers. Quitting tobacco products altogether is the best way to prevent cancer.
Do you drink alcohol?
- Yes
- No
- Occasionally
Review Your Answer
Alcohol is irritating to the delicate cells that line the oral cavity and throat. Repeated irritation can make it harder for these cells to repair themselves, which may lead to mutations in cellular DNA. These mutations may eventually lead to cancerous cells.
Have you been diagnosed with the human papillomavirus (HPV)?
- Yes
- No
- I don’t know
Review Your Answer
Similar to other viruses (like herpes), the human papillomavirus can infect the cells in the mouth and throat. But, unlike other viruses, HPV can significantly increase the risk of mouth cancer. Indeed, experts believe that HPV may be responsible for a shocking 70% of oropharyngeal cancers.
Do you wear sunscreen daily?
- Yes
- No
- Sometimes
Review Your Answer
Mouth cancer includes cancerous lesions on the lips. Wearing sunscreen daily (even on your lips) can shield you from the sun’s cell-damaging rays. You can further enhance your UV protection by wearing SPF-containing lip balms.
Do you eat a nutritious diet?
- Yes
- No
- Sometimes
Review Your Answer
A recent study found that diets high in natural fiber may protect us against oral cancers. So, if you aren’t eating enough fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, then you may be placing yourself at risk of mouth cancer.
Schedule a Mouth Cancer Screening in Oakbrook Terrace
If you think that you might be at risk of developing mouth cancer, then contact Dr. Noto at Gallery Dental of Oakbrook now. Patients can reach our team here, or they may get scheduled at (630) 620-8300.