Risk Factors of Oral Cancer

April is National Oral Cancer Awareness Month, and dentists are the first line of defense against this pervasive disease. So we’re going to post a series of short discussions about the facts, risks, diagnosis, and treatment of oral cancer throughout the month. Please ask questions in the comments, and don’t hesitate to contact the office with your concerns or to schedule a screening.

Earlier this month, we talked about the devastating statistics relating to fatality rates for oral cancer. Today we’re going to talk about who is predisposed to contracting it.

The first risk factor usually cited is age. Historically, the majority of cases occurred over age 40. Things have changed in this decade, however.

Most of you will guess that tobacco use is a huge risk factor, and it is. Combine that with alcohol consumption, and you’ve got a 15x greater risk than someone who does neither.

Exposure to ultraviolet radiation or x-ray radiation is another factor. Oral cancer caused by too much sun exposure has decreased, thanks to awareness and use of sunscreens. Occasional x-ray exposure is safe; this damage accumulates over a long period of time.

On the rise are oral cancers caused by viruses and fungus, especially HPV16.

All patients should be sure their dentists give them a full oral cancer screening at each regular visit, but those with the above risk factors should be especially diligent.

Flintridge Dental Studio - Mobile Web Site

Flintridge Dental Studio
Now on the Mobile Web!

Flintridge Dental Studio of La Canada Flintridge California is pleased to announce that they can now be found on the mobile web. Our lighter version of our web site allow mobile surfers to view information about our dental care services in La Canada Flintridge CA.

Visit us at www.FlintridgeDentalStudio.mobi using your mobile device, smart phone, iPhone, Blackberry etc.

Dental Office La Canada Flintridge California

Dental Office La Canada Flintridge CA

Caring, Personalized Treatment

Our top priority is to treat each patient as an individual, to get to know them personally, and not merely treat them as a chart number or “the next patient.” We promise all our patients the same things: a caring and attentive staff, an enthusiastic manner, and state-of-the-art dental care delivered with exceptional comfort in a friendly atmosphere. Spa-like amenities including blankets, hot towels, iPods™, paraffin hand dips, refreshments, and much more coming soon!

Flintridge Dental Studio La Canada Flintridge CA