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Most people know that sugary drinks are terrible for teeth, but as new research suggests, cavities aren’t the only mouth trouble they may cause.
The study, recently published in JAMA Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery, followed over 162,000 women for three decades and found that those who consumed at least one sugary drink each day had almost five times the risk of developing oral cancer compared to those who had less than one drink each month.
What makes this study particularly interesting is that the risk was higher even for women who didn’t smoke or use alcohol heavily – two of the most common traditional risk factors for oral cancer.
That said, although the absolute risk remains low – about 3 additional cases per 100,000 people – these findings add to the evidence that what you eat can significantly affect your oral health beyond simple tooth decay or gum disease.
It also stands out as an illustration of changing trends in oral cancer diagnoses. These are cancers that can affect various areas, including the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, the palates, sinuses, and throat. The American Cancer Society estimates that there are about 54,000 new cases of oropharyngeal (mouth/throat) cancer each year, with rates rising among certain groups even though smoking rates are way down.
Historically, oral cancers were seen mainly in older men with histories of tobacco and alcohol use. Over the past 20 years or so, rates have gone up considerably for younger populations and women. This changing landscape suggests that other factors are in play, including diet, HPV infection, and other environmental or lifestyle factors.
With Oral Cancer, Early Detection Is Key
When caught early, oral cancers have a very high cure rate, often exceeding 80%. The bad news is that too many cases are caught late, when treatment becomes tricker and survival rates drop dramatically.
This is why regular oral cancer screenings are so important – and part of the comprehensive exams we provide here at the Holistic Dental Center. Using specialized technology and techniques, we can identify suspicious tissues that might not be visible to the naked eye – and refer you for additional diagnostics if you do, followed up by appropriate treatment.
If you know the potential warning signs, you can also be on the lookout for them at home or even do regular self-exams to check for them (here’s how):
- Persistent mouth sores that don’t heal
- Red or white patches in the mouth
- Swelling or lumps in the mouth, throat, or neck
- Difficulty or pain while swallowing or chewing
- Changes in voice or speech
- Unexplained weight loss
- Loose teeth
- Bad breath
- Pain or numbness in the mouth or lips
- Bleeding from the mouth or throat
- Ear pain
If you notice any of these symptoms persisting for more than two weeks, contact us for an evaluation.
Meantime, there are steps you can take to help lower your risk of developing cancer in your mouth or throat:
Diet: Center your diet on whole, minimally processed foods. Include lots of fresh produce (organic, when possible) and other foods rich in antioxidants and phytonutrients. Stay well hydrated with filtered, fluoride-free water.
Lifestyle: Avoid tobacco in all forms and limit alcohol consumption. If you’re not 100% sure of your partner’s HPV status and choose to engage in oral activity, practice safer sex. Get enough quality sleep for cellular repair and immune function. The latter is supported by regular exercise or physical activity, as well. Practice stress-reduction techniques such as yoga or meditation.
