Oral Cancer – Lowering risk
Oral Cancer
Lowering your risk
Oral cancer is the 8th most common cancer worldwide and affects the lips, tongue and mouth. It is no longer a disease confined to heavy smokers and drinkers, and is something that should be examined for at all ages. In the early stages, oral cancer can go unnoticed. Unfortunately, most cases of this cancer are found in the late stage when treatment is extremely difficult and invasive. Oral cancer screening is one of the many reasons why a regular dental check-up is so important. At every check-up, your dentist will examine your entire mouth for early signs of oral cancer.
Visit mouthcancerawareness.ie for more information.
Early detection of oral cancer could save your life. Examine your mouth on a regular basis for changes that last more than two weeks. Things to look out for are non-healing ulcers, extremely dry patches, changes in colour or texture, unexplainable lumps, or difficultly swallowing. If you are concerned about any changes in your mouth, do not hesitate to visit your dentist. Your dentist may recommend that you have a small biopsy taken of the area concerned. This is a simple straightforward procedure.
How can I lower my risk?
- Visit your dentist at least once a year for a full check-up, even if you wear full dentures
- Lower your consumption of alcohol
- Try to quit smoking
- Wear sun factor on your face and lips EVERY time you will be outside for extended lengths of time (e.g. playing sports, farming, sailing, fishing etc)
- Eat a nutritious diet full of fruit and vegetables
- Protect yourself from viral infections such as human papilloma virus (HPV) which is spread via oral sex
Stress and your Oral Health
Stress and your Oral Health
We are all too familiar with stress, and how it can affect our energy levels, sleep patterns and mood. What you may not be aware of is how stress can also have an impact on your mouth. As dentists, we are seeing more and more cases of patients with stress-related oral health problems. If you are concerned about your oral health, please visit your dentist for a consultation.
Teeth grinding and clenching
Bruxism is the habit of grinding or clenching the teeth. People often do this at night-time or while concentrating on something. You may notice yourself waking up to a sore jaw, suffering from frequent headaches or a partner may hear you grinding at night. Over time bruxism can lead to extensive tooth wear, cracked teeth, jaw pain, sensitive teeth and headaches.
Treatment for teeth grinding and clenching involves jaw exercises, and creating a custom night guard (splint), which acts to protect your teeth, correctly reposition your jaw, and relax your jaw muscles.
Sores and ulcers
Stress can also affect the gums and soft tissues of the mouth. It is a common cause of mouth ulcers (aphthous ulcers) and cold sores (herpes labialis). Many of our patients find that they are prone to sores or ulcers during exam time or with deadlines at work. It is important to listen to your body and try to relieve stress even when you are busy. Remember to take breaks, eat well and get exercise.
Top tips for relieving stress
- Introduce an activity such as swimming, walking or yoga into your routine
- Get a good night’s sleep
- Limit your evening time spent on backlit screens (phones, tablets and computers)
- Limit your caffeine intake, and try not to have any tea/coffee after 6pm
- Try meditation or listening to relaxing music
- Indulge yourself with a massage, or simply take time out for a bath
