Studies show that malnutrition from a poor diet lessens a person's ability to fight infection. A balanced diet builds strong jaw bones, decay-resistant teeth and healthy gums. Good oral hygiene habits are the basis of a healthy mouth. Performing regular oral self-examination also can help protect you from oral cancer. You can examine your mouth regularly, using a hand mirror to explore every area of your mouth, gums, lips and tongue.
Many oral cancers begin as changes in the mucous membrane, the lining of the mouth.
These changes can be caused by such things as chronic irritation from ill-fitting dentures. Watch for such signs as recurring sore areas, lumps, masses, white patches or new growths. White, scaly patches inside your mouth or on your lips.