Oral Cancer Screening: According to the American Cancer Society, 37,000 people in the US will get some kind of oral cancer this year. Our dentists routinely perform an examination of your mouth during routine dental visits to screen for oral cancer. The goal with oral cancer screening is to identify cancer early, when there is a greater chance for a cure. We use the VELscope® Vx Enhanced Oral Assessment System, a wireless, handheld scope that applies tissue fluorescence visualization to identify oral mucosal abnormalities early - often months or even years before they can be identified with the unassisted eye. VELscope VX is the world's most widely used adjunctive device for the discovery of viral, fungal and bacterial infections, inflammation from a variety of causes, squamous papillomas, salivary gland tumors, cancer and pre-cancer, and other oral mucosal conditions.
Periodontics: Periodontics is the branch of dentistry that is concerned with prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of your gums and supporting structures of your teeth. Gum disease is caused by a buildup of plaque. When plaque is not removed with regular brushing, flossing and dental cleanings, it will continue to build up and cause damage to your gums. Periodontal disease starts to form right below the gum line and creates small pockets that separate the gums from the teeth. Periodontal disease has two stages: gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease, when your gums become red, swollen, and bleed easily. Gingivitis is treatable and can usually be eliminated by daily brushing and flossing. Periodontitis occurs when gingivitis goes untreated and advances. Gums and supporting bones become seriously and irreversibly damaged. Periodontitis can cause tooth loss.
Certain factors can increase a patient's risk of developing periodontal disease. Some contributing factors include smoking or using chewing tobacco, Diabetes, certain steroid medications, anti-epilepsy drugs, cancer therapy drugs, calcium channel blockers, and oral contraceptives.
Signs and symptoms of periodontitis include gums that red, swollen, tender gums that bleed easily, persistent bad breath or bad taste, pus between your teeth and gums, and loose permanent teeth.
Gum disease and periodontitis can be prevented with regular dental checkups and periodontal examinations. By practicing good oral hygiene at home, you can significantly reduce your chances of ever getting gum disease. By brushing regularly, flossing, eating a balanced diet, and scheduling regular dental visits you can keep your mouth healthy.