Someone in America dies every hour from oral cancer. That is a scary statistic, but this condition is easier to treat if it is detected while it is in the early stages. It is also important to separate the myths from the facts. Here are the top five Myths and Facts to help you understand it more and always check with a local cosmetic dentist professional in your area.
Myth: I am too Young to Develop Oral Cancer
Fact: Many people believe that they have to be old in order to develop oral cancer. While the vast majority of people who develop it are in their 60s, this condition has been diagnosed in patients who were under the age of 40. In fact, oral cancer is becoming more common in older people.
Myth: Smokers are the Only Ones who can Develop It
Fact: Even if you have never smoked a cigarette, you can still develop oral cancer. There are many risk factors that are associated with oral cancer, such as alcohol use, diet and the HPV virus.
Myth: I do not Have a Problem if There is no Pain
Fact: Many people think that if they do not have any oral pain, then there is no problem. However, some cancerous lesions do not cause any pain. That is why regular oral cancer screenings are extremely important.
Myth: If Oral Cancer Runs in my Family, Then I Will get It
Someone in America dies every hour from oral cancer. That is a scary statistic, but this condition is easier to treat if it is detected while it is in the early stages. It is also important to separate the myths from the facts.
Myth: I am too Young to Develop It
Fact: Many people believe that they have to be old in order to develop oral cancer. While the vast majority of people who develop oral cancer are in their 60s, this condition has been diagnosed in patients who were under the age of 40. In fact, oral cancer is becoming more common in older people.
Myth: Smokers are the Only Ones who can Develop Oral Cancer
Fact: Even if you have never smoked a cigarette, you can still develop oral cancer. There are many risk factors that are associated with oral cancer, such as alcohol use, diet and the HPV virus.
Myth: I do not Have a Problem if There is no Pain
Fact: Many people think that if they do not have any oral pain, then there is no problem. However, some cancerous lesions do not cause any pain. That is why regular oral cancer screenings are extremely important.
Myth: If it Runs in my Family, Then I Will get It
Fact: Family history does play a role in your overall health. If you have a family history of oral cancer, then you will be more likely to get it. However, having a family history of this condition does not automatically mean that you will develop it.
There are things that you can do in order to reduce your risk of oral cancer. Eating healthy, not smoking and limiting alcohol consumption are some of the things that you can do in order to prevent oral cancer.
Myth: Stress can Cause Oral Cancer
Fact: Stress has been linked to things like high blood pressure, insomnia and obesity. However, it has not been shown to cause mouth cancer.
Fact: Family history does play a role in your overall health. If you have a family history of oral cancer, then you will be more likely to get it. However, having a family history of this condition does not automatically mean that you will develop it.
There are things that you can do in order to reduce your risk of oral cancer. Eating healthy, not smoking and limiting alcohol consumption are some of the things that you can do in order to prevent oral cancer.
Myth: Stress can Cause Cancer in Your Mouth
Fact: Stress has been linked to things like high blood pressure, insomnia and obesity. However, it has not been shown to cause oral cancer.
If you are concerned or want to take preventive actions contact our cosmetic surgery office in Downtown Phoenix or Scottsdale, AZ at 480.860.0092 where we focus on the utmost complete oral healthcare for our patients.