The Importance of Oral Cancer Screening

According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, nearly 8,000 deaths a year are caused by cancer of the mouth and pharynx, the cavity behind the nose and mouth that connects to the esophagus. Tragically, many of these deaths could be prevented with a simple, painless 5 minute screening by a dentist.

Effects of Smoking on Teeth & Tips for Quitting

By now everyone knows that smoking cigarettes is very harmful to your health. When you think of health risks and smoking, lung cancer is probably the first thing that comes to mind. But did you know that smoking actually harms nearly every single organ of the body?

Your mouth, gums and teeth are no exception.

3 Most Common Dental Problems for Seniors

With age comes wisdom, as the saying goes, but it also comes with a few less-than-appealing characteristics. As we grow older, our bodies generally become weaker and therefore more susceptible to health and physiological problems, including dental health issues. In this post, we'll go over a few of the most common dental health problems for senior citizens and tips for reducing the risk of developing them.

If You Have White Spots on Your Gums…

In the last 30 years, major advancements have been made in the field of dentistry that allow for the early detection of a number of diseases and conditions. Thanks to these forms of early detection, millions of patients have been saved from life-threatening illnesses that were first discovered during a routine dental exam. 

One alarming development patients often report is the occurrence of white spots on the gums. Although it is certainly no cause for immediate alarm, your dentist should definitely check out any abnormality or discoloration. Several scenarios are typical, including, friction from dental appliances, ill-fitting dentures, a toothbrush that is too firm, or irritation caused by some foods or beverages-especially alcohol. The most serious indication when white spots develop on the gums is gum cancer. Since an exam is necessary for an accurate diagnosis, an oral exam should be scheduled immediately.

The medical term for white spots on the gums is "leukoplakia". The spots may appear on the gums, inner cheeks, and tongue. Sometimes, they may only be visible through an oral exam. This is another reason why annual checkups are so important!

Although the immediate cause of this condition is unknown, some form of irritation, such as those already mentioned usually brings it on. Pipe smoking seems to be a big risk factor. Older adults are also more prone to developing leukoplakia.

The good news is that such white spots on the gums are usually harmless and go away after a few days or weeks. If they are present, avoid alcohol and stop all tobacco use, including cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and chewing tobacco. If you think dental work is irritating your gums or mouth, or if the white spots on your gums are especially painful or prevent you from eating, talking, or wearing your dental appliances, schedule an appointment with your dentist immediately.

Even though many dental health websites suggest waiting and watching the condition in hopes that it will go away on its own for several days to two weeks maximum-it is best to play it safe and schedule an appointment for a thorough oral exam. Of course we encourage you to make regular appointments for cleanings and exams by calling Dr. Simon Melcher and his experienced team: 919-782-0548.

How Often Should I Visit My Dentist?

Just as you schedule regular visits to maintain your car, you should also be diligent about regular appointments to your dentist. Routine oral exams and cleanings should occur no farther apart than every six months. Do not think that frequent brushing, flossing, and rinsing on your own is enough. No matter how well you take care of your teeth, it is virtually impossible to remove plaque that builds up even with the most conscientious individuals. The rate at which plaque builds up varies greatly from patient to patient and is unpredictable. That is also why those with gum issues need to see their dentist even more often.

Waiting until there is a problem is never a good idea. When you wait until there is pain or a visible issue, the situation can become much more serious and more difficult to treat. Along with cleaning your teeth, Dr. Melcher and our dental hygienists will evaluate your individual teeth, gums, oral mucosa, cheeks, neck, and tongue. It is very important to discover signs of decay and tooth fractures early, before bone loss and infection can set in.

During your regular six-month appointments, we will perform the “6 Step Screening for Oral Cancer.” This simple procedure could save your life. Do not assume that because you don’t smoke, you are not at risk.

And… look into your schedule to make sure you have set aside a minimum of two dates this year for your regular dental check-ups. Just like your car or home, your teeth must be cared for regularly. Doing just that, will give you plenty of reasons to smile!

Call Implant & General Dentistry in Raleigh, NC at 919-782-0548 to schedule your exam with Dr. Simon Melcher!