Tips to Prevent Oral Cancer

In most cases, cancer prevention knowledge is still evolving. You’re well
aware, however, that your lifestyle choices affect your risk of developing
cancer. Changing your lifestyle can make a significant difference to your
health if you are interested in preventing cancer. Here are some tips for
preventing cancer:

• Avoid using tobacco
• Make sure you eat a balanced diet
• Keep a healthy weight and exercise regularly
• Don’t expose yourself to the sun
• Consider getting vaccinated
• Make sure you check your mouth once a month
• Visit the doctor on a regular basis.

Avoid using tobacco

There is no better way to take care of your mouth, and of your entire
body, than by doing this. You are more at risk if you smoke more and for
a longer period of time. Whether you’re new to it or have been doing it
for years, stopping now is beneficial. Quitting will improve your
treatment, you will heal faster, and it will be less likely to return if you do
get cancer. Avoid smoking if you don’t already.

Eat a balanced diet

Nutritional deficiencies can cause changes in your mouth that increase
your risk of cancer. Fruits and vegetables contain vitamins and
antioxidants that boost your immune system and keep you healthy.
Getting 5 servings a day is a good idea, as well as mixing them up for
variety. You should eat carrots, Brussels sprouts, and squash regularly for
good oral health.

If you want to maximize the cancer-fighting power of your fruit and
vegetables, don’t cook them too much. For the best results, eat some
raw. In order to ensure they remain tender, stop cooking them when they
are still a bit firm. High heat can also produce cancer-causing substances
in cooking oils. So, baking, boiling, or steaming is a better alternative to
frying.

Keep a healthy weight and exercise regularly

Keeping a healthy weight may lower the risk of cancers such as breast
cancer, prostate cancer, lung cancer, colon cancer, and kidney cancer.
Your immune system is boosted by an active lifestyle, and your cancer
risk is reduced. Running, jogging, cycling, swimming, strength training,
and weight lifting are all examples of these forms of exercise.

Don’t expose yourself to the sun

The sun can damage your lips as well as raise your chances of skin
cancer. During the day, stay away from direct sunlight, since it’s
strongest at that time. Wear a wide-brimmed hat when you go outside to
shade your face. Wear lip balm that contains a minimum SPF of 15, and
use it often. Avoid tanning beds as well.

Consider getting vaccinated

HPV is a group of viruses that are very common. It can be in your mouth
without you knowing it. This is because it rarely causes any problems
most of the time. Some people, however, can develop cancer as a result
of these changes. HPV can be prevented with a vaccine, but it is most
effective if you get it before you start sexual activity. The number of
partners you have should be limited if you are already practicing safe
sex.

Make sure you check your mouth once a month

It’s your responsibility to keep an eye on things between dental visits.
Open up wide in front of the mirror once a month. Observe ulcers and
unusual patches of red or white that last at least three weeks. Take a
look inside your mouth, including your roof and floor, your tongue and
gums. Whenever you are unsure about anything, see your dentist.

Visit the doctor on a regular basis

Dental care is more than polishing your teeth, filling cavities, and
reminding you to floss. The doctors check for cancerous growths on your
tongue, cheeks, and inside your mouth. Any problems they spot early on
can be easier to treat as they are on the front lines. Annual dental visits
are recommended.