Description
Because tobacco, heavy alcohol consumption and poor diet explain the majority of oral cancers the dental team must advise patients to minimise these risk factors. Because the damage done to oral tissues by tobacco is clearly visible – ranging from enhanced periodontal breakdown, possible pre-malignant lesions, to staining and halitosis – oral clinicians can engaged patient’s attention. They should always ask about tobacco use and advise on cessation, and if patients wish refer them to one of the many current smoking cessation services available in the UK. They should advise that alcohol consumption is kept within safe limits, and give advice on a nutritious diet, rich in fresh fruits and vegetables and low in saturated fats. Dentists must systematically examine all of their patients and rapidly refer all suspicious cases.
