Oral Cancer and Alcohol

The prosthodontists of the Oyster Bay Family Dentists provide reconstructive surgery to people who have suffered the ravages of oral cancer. But we also want our patients to know how to avoid this disease in the first place, which is why we strive to provide the latest information.

Recently, the American Society of Clinical Oncology released a study which examined the relationship between cancer and alcohol. They found that alcohol use is the cause of about 5% of new cancer cases, including of oral cancer. This is concerning because most people are aware of the danger posed by smoking and HPV, but are not aware of that of alcohol. The research did not show that the odds of cancer developing differed between different types of alcohol, but it did show that even moderate drinking carries a risk.

Scientists are still debating why alcohol would lead to oral cancer. Some hypothesize that it damages the soft tissues in the mouth, which then have to regrow. But one positive finding of the research was that when people stop drinking, their chances of developing cancer in any part of the aerodigestive tract declines.

Drs. Denise VeyVoda and Robert G. West operate The Oyster Bay Family Dentists at 123 South Street, Oyster Bay, New York, 11771. To schedule an appointment, call 516-922-5730 or visit Oyster Bay Dentists and fill out a contact sheet.

 

Children's Dental Health Month

We of the Oyster Bay Family Dentists treat patients with all kinds of needs, but preventive care is always best. Each February, the American Dental Association devotes a month to educating the public about children’s dental health, and the theme of this year’s campaign is how to use fluoridated toothpaste to protect every part of every tooth surface.

Children’s baby teeth need to be cared for. Although they will eventually fall out, decay is still painful and can cause children to miss sleep and avoid eating and speaking. Parents should start brushing a baby’s teeth as soon as the first one erupts. As children get older, brushing their teeth is a good habit for them to get into as an introduction to taking responsibility for their overall health. It is important for them to remember to brush for two full minutes during each session and to brush every tooth surface and on their tongue.

Fluoridated toothpaste is particularly beneficial because it helps to prevent acid produced by bacteria from eroding tooth enamel. Fluoride treatments available at our office are offered for the same reason. However, fluoridated toothpaste should not be used on mouth guards or other oral appliances because the minerals can leave scratches on plastic.

Drs. Denise VeyVoda and Robert G. West operate The Oyster Bay Family Dentists at 123 South Street, Oyster Bay, New York, 11771. To schedule an appointment, call 516-922-5730 or visit Oyster Bay Dentists and fill out a contact sheet.