Oral Cancer Comes from Problems Aside from Tobacco Use

Posted on 9/1/2025 by Pacific Maxillofacial Center

Woman looking in mirror worried she has oral cancer

We all know that smoking is bad for our health. It can cause lung cancer, heart disease, and stroke. But did you know that smoking can also cause oral cancer?

Oral cancer is cancer of the mouth, tongue, lips, gums, throat, or salivary glands. It is a serious disease that can be fatal if it is not caught early.

Most people think that oral cancer is caused by smoking, but that is not always the case. There are other factors that can increase your risk of developing oral cancer, including:

•	Heavy alcohol use
•	HPV infection
•	Genetics
•	Poor oral hygiene
•	Exposure to the sun
•	A diet low in fruits and vegetables
•	Ill-fitting dentures

If you are at risk for oral cancer, it is important to see your dentist for regular checkups. During these checkups, your dentist will examine your mouth for any signs of oral cancer. They may also recommend that you have an oral cancer screening test.

Oral cancer screening tests can help to detect oral cancer early, when it is most treatable. Early detection can greatly increase your chances of survival.

If you are concerned about your risk of oral cancer, talk to your dentist. They can help you to understand your risk and make recommendations for how to reduce it.

What Can You Do to Reduce Your Risk of Oral Cancer?

There are a number of things you can do to reduce your risk of oral cancer. These include:

•	Quitting smoking and chewing tobacco
•	Limiting your alcohol consumption
•	Getting vaccinated against HPV
•	Practicing good oral hygiene
•	Eating a healthy diet
•	Protecting your lips from the sun
•	Seeing your dentist for regular checkups

Treatment Options for Oral Cancer

If you are diagnosed with oral cancer, there are a number of treatment options available. The best treatment option for you will depend on the stage of your cancer, your overall health, and your personal preferences.

Treatment options for oral cancer may include:

•	Surgery
•	Radiation therapy
•	Chemotherapy
•	Targeted therapy
•	Immunotherapy

Conclusion

Oral cancer is a serious disease, but it is preventable and treatable. By understanding the risk factors for oral cancer and taking steps to reduce your risk, you can help to protect yourself from this disease. If you are concerned about your risk of oral cancer, talk to your dentist. They can help you to make informed decisions about your oral health.

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At Pacific Maxillofacial Center the doctors cover dental subjects, that you and your family may be interested in. Call us today, we are located nearby Honolulu!
Pacific Maxillofacial Center, 1060 Young Street #312, Honolulu, HI 96814 - 808-585-8455 - pacificmaxcenter.com - 2/14/2026 - Tags: Dental Implants Honolulu -