Dentists can easily tell which of their patients are smokers and often see oral problems that are a direct result of smoking. A high percentage of oral cancer patients share common characteristics. Twice as many men as women are diagnosed with oral cancer, and most are age 50 and older. Oral cancer is directly linked to tobacco use, and excessive alcohol consumption can promote malignancy. You can help protect yourself from oral cancer by living a tobacco-free lifestyle and maintaining a balanced diet and good oral hygiene habits.
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.