Tobacco, Alcohol & Oral Cancer: Dr. Shah’s Guidance for Farmington Hills Patients

It’s more than just cavities or gum disease. Tobacco and alcohol use are two of the largest risk factors for oral cancer, but many people don’t realize how intense the relationship is. Dr. Shah routinely sees the results of that down the road in patients here in Farmington Hills, and it shouldn’t be ignored. If you or a loved one smokes or drinks regularly, it’s worth knowing what that might do to your mouth.

How Tobacco and Alcohol Affect the Mouth

Tobacco, whether smoked or chewed, contains thousands of chemicals. Many of them are carcinogens – meaning they can lead to cancer. Cigarettes, cigars, chewing tobacco, and even e-cigarettes increase your risk for:

• Leukoplakia or erythroplakia (painful white or red patches inside the mouth)
• Persistent mouth sores
• Receding gum and jawbone loss
• Oral, throat, and tongue cancer

Heavy drinking can inflame the soft tissues in your mouth. Chronic irritation over time makes it simpler for dangerous chemicals to harm your cells. More frightening is that alcohol and tobacco combined double your risk.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says approximately 75% of oral cancers are associated with tobacco and alcohol consumption.

Why Early Detection Matters

A sore that seems to take forever to heal. Sudden swelling of your tongue. Difficulty swallowing food or gulping water.

These symptoms might not seem urgent—but they can be early signs of oral cancer. Regular checkups with a dentist in Farmington Hills can make a major difference in catching problems early. Dentists are trained to notice subtle changes in the mouth that others may miss. If you’re over 40, use tobacco or alcohol, or have a family history of cancer, your oral care routine must cover yearly oral cancer screenings.

Dr. Shah’s Tips to Lower Your Risk

As a dentist in Farmington Hills, Dr. Shah has one unmistakable message: Prevention begins with knowledge. If you smoke or drink, no judgment—only support and advice. Here’s what Dr. Shah advises:

• Reduce or stop the use of tobacco and alcohol; even a small reduction helps
• Use fluoride toothpaste and brush, and floss regularly
• Get regular checkups from the best dentist in Farmington Hills at least twice yearly
• Don’t miss oral cancer screenings
• Look for signs such as unceasing soreness, numbness, or trouble swallowing

Your Dentist is the Backbone of Your Oral Health

Regular visits to your dentist aren’t all about cleanings—they’re an essential part of your overall health. Early detection of oral cancer offers you enough time to get it treated. Many patients are making small changes every day that add up to a big difference. Whether you’ve smoked for years or only drink occasionally, there’s always a step you can take to lower your risk. Schedule your visit with Dr. Shah today at Village Family Dentistry.