Here’s why oral hygiene matters when it comes to cancer

You brush your teeth, you see the dentist often. Maybe you don’t floss as much as you should, and sure, your gums seem a little sensitive and prone to bleeding—what’s the big deal?

The one reason our mothers were right about oral hygiene was not only to keep ourselves from gum diseases but also to fight cancers that result from several oral conditions.

One thing people should know is that, gum diseases and oral diseases in general, host a number of cancers including, oesophageal cancer, pancreatic cancer as well as oral cancer that you have probably heard about.

There are these forms of oral conditions known as gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is the precursor to periodontal disease, it will cause your gum to become red, swollen and can bleed easily. In most cases these conditions may be triggered by not following oral hygiene and in time may lead to oral cancer.

Talking about oral cancer, it might not cross your mind all that often, but it is real. And, no, just because you are young or don’t smoke, does not mean you are not at risk. Oral cancer is on the rise across the world and it makes a lot of sense to look at prevention. Here are a few things you could do to keep this potentially life threatening condition at bay.

Floss regularly

It’s good that you brush twice a day, but when it comes to dental and oral hygiene, this might not be enough. Particles that get deeply lodged in between teeth may need flossing to be cleared. The combination of brushing and flossing may also shield you against the risk of contracting oral cancer through the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). HPV is the cause of anywhere between 40 per cent and 80 per cent of oropharyngeal cancers.

Conduct self-exams

Once a month, pick up a flashlight that’s bright enough and head to the nearest mirror. For spots that are not easily accessible or seen, use a mouth mirror. Self-exams might not be as precise and as professionally conducted examinations, but they can often spot early indicators, if any. Watch out for tender areas, bumps, lumps and red and white spots. If you notice anything suspicious, talk to your dentist immediately.

Reduce smoking and alcohol use or quit

Do you smoke? If yes, then you fall among those people who face a higher risk of contracting oral cancer.

Smocking tobacco causes 70 per cent of all oral and pharyngeal cancers. Alcohol is the other thing that you should cut down on or better still, give up.

Regular check-ups

Make regular appointments with your dentist or dental hygienist at least every six months and ask for an oral cancer screening to be done.

However, if you go through such symptoms like sore that bleeds and doesn’t heal, difficult and painful chewing, difficult and painful swallowing, sore throat, a growth, lump or thickening of the skin or lining of your mouth, immediately see your doctor especially if these symptoms last for two week and above.