Most people know that the sun can harm their skin. But did you know it can also hurt your smile? Our Oak Park dentist is here to help you understand how the sun affects your lips, gums, and teeth.
If you notice changes in the color or texture of your lips, contact Town and Country Dental of Oak Park, IL. These could be signs of skin cancer. So, be proactive – call (708) 383-0330 to schedule an oral cancer screening and check-up with Dr. Thomas Wegner now!
Taking the right steps to protect your mouth from the sun can keep your smile healthy and bright for years. So, here’s what our Oak Park dentist wants you to know about your smile and UV protection.
How the Sun Affects Your Lips
Our Oak Park dentist sees many patients with lip damage caused by the sun.
The skin on your lips is paper thin, even thinner than the skin on the rest of your body. And, unfortunately, too much sun can cause sunburn, dryness, and even skin cancer.
Using a lip product with SPF 15+ can help keep your lips soft and safe from damaging UV rays.
How to Protect Your Smile from the Sun
The good news is that it’s easy to protect your smile from sun damage! Here are some simple steps you can take:
Use SPF Lip Products
Whether it’s lip balm or lipstick, using products with SPF 15 or higher keeps your lips from getting dry, cracked, or sunburned.
Wear a Hat
A wide-brimmed hat can shade your face and provide extra protection for your lips.
Stay Hydrated
If your face and lips do get sunburned, be sure to drink a lot of water. Your body needs the extra hydration to heal the damage.
Avoid Too Much Sun
If possible, stay out of direct sunlight between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. This is when the sun is strongest.
Visit an Oak Park Dentist Regularly
Our Oak Park dentist can check for signs of sun damage and help keep your mouth healthy. Remember: Early detection is your best chance to beat skin cancer.
Signs of Sun Damage to Watch For
It’s no secret that the sun can irreparably damage the skin, and your lips are no exception. Indeed, experts estimate that roughly 20% of people will be diagnosed with some form of skin cancer by the time they turn 70. And the bottom lip is particularly susceptible to sun damage, as it gets more direct sunlight than the top lip.
Subsequently, it’s important to know the signs of sun damage so you can take action early. Look for:
- Dry, cracked, or peeling lips
- White or discolored spots on your lips
- Tingling or numbness
- Sore throat or ear pain
- Bleeding, swelling, or lesions that won’t heal
If you notice any of these signs, see our Oak Park dentist as soon as possible. Early treatment can prevent bigger problems later.
Keep Your Smile Safe – Schedule an Oral Cancer Screening with an Oak Park Dentist
Our Oak Park dentist knows how much the sun can harm your smile. So, if you have any concerns, visit Dr. Wegner for advice and care. Click here to request a visit at Town and Country Dental, or call us at (708) 383-0330 for a check-up and oral cancer screening today!