When most people think about their oral health, they focus on brushing, flossing, and routine checkups and cleanings. But there’s another important factor that often gets overlooked: your mental health! Believe it or not, your mind and body are deeply connected, and conditions like depression and anxiety don’t just affect your mood—they can also have a significant impact on your teeth and gums. Understanding this connection is the first step toward protecting both your smile and your mental state; here’s what you need to know.

Oral cancer is a serious condition that can affect the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, sinuses, throat, and so on—virtually every single part of the oral cavity! What’s worse is that oral cancer is also among the deadliest of all forms of cancer. That said, the good news is that many of the risk factors of oral cancer are well within your control, and understanding what increases your risk can make a life-saving difference. Here are a few of the biggest risk factors for oral cancer, and how you can protect yourself.