At this point, everyone in the world knows that smoking is incredibly bad for your health. The obvious issues – lung problems and a shorter lifespan – should be enough to stop most everyone from smoking.

Smoking does more than that, though. One of the aspects of smoking that’s often overlooked is the role it plays in causing oral cancer. We know that quitting is hard, and we hope this information helps in that process.

What types of cancer?
Oral cancer refers to any type of cancerous growth in the mouth. This includes your teeth, gums, and cheeks. You’ll see a dentist for treatment, though that doctor and your oncologist will likely work very closely together to ensure proper treatment.

Dr. Catalina Phan has seen many different types of oral cancer. Nearly all of them have led to lifelong issues for the patients.

What does it cause?
Oral cancer isn’t necessarily fatal if treated early. However, it still presents a huge infection risk to the rest of your body. Since this cancer starts in your mouth, as it spreads, the infection only gets bigger, leaving more bacteria in its wake.

And where will all that infection travel? You’re right – everywhere else in your body.

Prevention
Even if you don’t smoke, you can still get oral cancer. Luckily, every appointment here at Campbell Dental Care in Campbell, California, includes an oral cancer screening. We may not always spot everything, but a screening is a big step in making sure you never get oral cancer.

Of course, the best thing you can do to avoid oral cancer is to avoid smoking tobacco at all. Call us today at 408-364-1122 if you need more information, or to make an appointment.