Dental Care for Seniors: 7 Oral Cancer Risk Factors

Oral Cancer Risk Factors in Senior Citizens

The dentists with In Motion Dentists understand that as people age, their risk for developing oral cancer increases. Therefore, oral cancer screenings are an important part of any elderly dental care plan.

If you’re a caregiver to a senior citizen, you may be able to spot early warning signs of oral cancer. Here are 7 risk factors your loved one might face:

1. Tobacco Use

Tobacco use—including smoking cigarettes or cigars, or using chewing tobacco—increases the risk for oral cancer. This risk grows the longer someone has used tobacco and as they age. Seniors who currently use, or have a history of using, tobacco should always receive oral cancer screenings.

2. Prolonged Sun Exposure

Many seniors grew up when we didn’t fully understand the harmful effects of UVA and UVB rays. Some may even recall using baby oil to get a suntan! Prolonged sun exposure can increase the risk of lip cancer. Dr. Banner includes lip cancer screenings as part of routine elderly dental care.

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3. Gender

Male senior citizens are statistically more likely than females to develop oral cancer. Ensure that male loved ones, especially those with other risk factors, are screened regularly as part of their dental care.

4. Poor Oral Hygiene

Unfortunately, many seniors—especially those with dementia or memory impairments—struggle to maintain proper oral hygiene. This isn’t always due to lack of effort; fear or uncooperativeness can also play a role.

Poor oral hygiene is a leading cause of oral cancer in seniors, particularly in those with:

• Poorly fitting dentures
• Lifetime use of alcohol or tobacco products

If it’s difficult to provide proper care at home, make sure Dr. Banner knows so he can carefully check for signs of oral cancer during visits.

5. Poor Diet or Nutrition

Changes in medical needs can impact a senior’s diet and nutrition. Diets low in fruits, vegetables, and vitamin A can increase oral cancer risk. Elderly dental care includes monitoring for these risk factors.

6. Weakened Immune System

As seniors age, their immune system often weakens, whether due to underlying conditions or recent illnesses like pneumonia. A weakened immune system increases susceptibility to oral cancer, making routine elderly dental care essential.

7. Marijuana Use

Even though marijuana is legal in California for medical and recreational use, it can still contribute to oral cancer risk. Seniors should avoid use to reduce their risk.

Contact Dr. Banner for Guidance on Elderly Dental Care

The dentists at In Motion Dentists know you want to avoid potential health complications for your loved one, including oral cancer.

If your mom, dad, grandma, or grandpa has any of these risk factors—or if you simply want guidance on providing at-home elderly dental care—contact In Motion Dentists in San Bernardino today at (626) 594-0374.