Seven Tips for Avoiding Oral Cancer
When most people think about their dental health, they tend to focus on things like tooth pain, decay, and even bad breath. As important as those issues can be, however, they pale in comparison to the threat posed by oral cancer. Patients who fail to exercise proper dental hygiene, or who engage in the types of behavior that can increase the risk of cancer in the mouth, could be gambling with their very lives. Fortunately, the risk of oral cancer can be minimized with sound judgment and healthy lifestyle choices. Here are seven simple tips to help you avoid oral cancer.
Avoid smoking and all tobacco products. Researchers believe that smoking is responsible for the majority of oral cancer cases. You can significantly reduce your risk of contracting this disease by forsaking tobacco. If you already smoke, then you should consider quitting.
Pay attention to your diet. Try to eat a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruit, vegetables, and lean protein to ensure that your body has the nutrients it needs to fight off the potential infections that could cause dental decay.
Focus on your brushing regimen. You should commit to brushing teeth, gums, and your tongue several times each day. As a general rule, you should at least brush after each meal, as well as before you retire for the evening. It is important to use a soft bristle brush to prevent damage to tooth enamel.
Do not forget to floss. Flossing is one of the most overlooked and neglected parts of regular dental care, despite its proven benefits for patients. Be sure to floss on a daily basis to prevent the plaque buildup that can contribute to dental decay, infection, and other complications.
Do not cut corners on your dental hygiene products. Use an approved fluoride toothpaste that can provide the protection your teeth need. If you are at all confused about which products will work best for your teeth, consult your dental professional for assistance.
Use a mouth rinse. You should avoid the alcohol-based mouthwashes, and instead opt for a rinse solution that includes a small amount of salt and baking soda. This will help to keep your mouth clean, without risking the destruction of the good bacteria that help to fight infection.
Seek regular dental care from a competent professional. Your dentist can help you not only maintain better oral hygiene practices, but can also provide an early warning system so that you can identify potential problem areas before they become a serious threat. Remember: oral cancer, like most other forms of cancer, can be treated if it is detected early.
When it comes to taking care of your teeth and mouth, you should rely on the best dentist in Midtown Manhattan. At Ebenezer Dental, we understand just how important a healthy mouth can be to ensuring that our patients remain free from the illnesses and disease that can otherwise ravage their lives. Give us a call today to find out more about how our commitment to patient dental health can help you to enjoy a healthier life.