Heavy Drinking and Oral Cancer

Most people associate oral cancer with smokers. While tobacco use is directly linked to oral cancer, those who engage in heavy drinking are also at a high risk. In fact, when done in combination, the risk of getting oral cancer skyrockets. For men, the odds are even worse, since they are roughly two times as likely as women to be stricken with the disease. The average age of patients with oral cancer is 62.
When someone has oral cancer, the lip, floor of the mouth, tongue, soft palate and tonsils may all be affected. Unfortunately, two-thirds of the people with oral cancer do not realize that they have the disease until it is in the advanced stages. That is why it is so important to see our Beverly Hills cosmetic dentist on a regular basis for a checkup and dental cleaning.

It is also essential for individuals to be on the lookout for preliminary signs of trouble. Heavy drinkers should pay particular attention to any types of oral swelling, sores in the mouth or discolorations. If the issues do not correct themselves after two weeks, you should make an immediate appointment to see our dentist in Beverly Hills for a thorough examination. When oral cancer is detected in the early stages, patients increase their likelihood of recovery. Often, radiation or chemotherapy is necessary. Oral cancer treatment may also include removing any affected cells.

Source: Beverly Hills Dentist

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