Overall Oral Health There's a growing trend within general dentistry that stresses the importance of overall oral health – not only health of teeth and gums, but of all the soft tissues in the oral cavity and oropharynx. Growing numbers of clinical practitioners now incorporate routine intra- and extra-oral head and neck exams into their hygiene appointments to screen for dysplasia, oral cancer and a host of other oral diseases. Oral CancerApproximately 36,540 Americans will be diagnosed with cancer of the oral cavity and pharynx in 2010. During the same time period 7,880 Americans will die of oral cancer.* One of the VELscope system's most important tasks is to help identify areas that might, if not identified and treated, progress to oral cancer. The statistics below, from the National Cancer Institute's SEER Database, 1999-2006, are a compelling argument for regular VELscope exams: Found early, while still Localized (confined to the primary site), oral cancer's five-year survival rate is good: about 83%. Only 33% of all oral cancer discoveries fall into this category. Found while Regional (progressed to regional lymph nodes) the five-year survival rate drops significantly, to about 55%. Approximately 46% of all oral cancer discoveries are Regional. Found late, oral cancer's five-year survival rate is poor: approximately 32%. This accounts for approximately 14% of all oral cancer findings. Clearly, finding oral cancer in its early stages is key to survival. Routine VELscope examinations can improve the morbidity and mortality of oral-cancer, because the VELscope system assists in early detection, potentially saving lives through less invasive, more effective treatment. HPV — Changing the Demographics of Oral Cancer An increasing body of evidence points to a strong link between particular strains of the human papilloma virus (HPV, most notably strain 16) and a certain type of oral cancer that occurs in the oropharynx. HPV 16 is the same strain associated with almost all cervical cancer. Many experts now recommend that all adult patients over the age of 18 receive a thorough intra- and extra-oral head and neck exam annually. For more information on oral cancer, please visit the Oral Cancer Foundation. * All statistics from the National Cancer Institute's SEER Database.

Services Provided

X-rays

X-rays allow us to see in between the teeth and under existing fillings to help us detect tooth decay. X-rays can also help us check the health of the bone supporting the teeth.

Diagnostic Impressions

Diagnostic impressions are taken to ensure the fit of any crown, bridge, or denture. The exact shape of your teeth and gums is molded in a flexible vinyl mixture that sets quickly. The vinyl mold is then used to create a replica of your mouth with plaster or plastic.

Comprehensive Oral Exams

The first step in any dental care plan is to determine your existing health conditions. If you are a first-time patient, we will perform a comprehensive examination; including recording of your medical history, taking full x-rays, screening for oral cancer, examining periodontal (gum) condition, checking each tooth for cavities, and examining your jaw and bite.

Periodic Oral Exams

As an established patient with a preventive dental care plan, you will come to the office on a regular recall schedule for a cleaning and check-up. Periodic exams are important for maintaining your healthy smile.

Consultation and Treatment Planning

Oral health is a lifelong concern. We will help you understand any conditions that need treatment and devise a plan for correcting them. We will also discuss the options for any cosmetic treatments you may be interested in. Furthermore, we will outline a regular course of preventive care.

Cracked Tooth Syndrome

Cracked tooth syndrome, as the name suggests, is the development of cracks and fissures in teeth over time. These cracks may be invisible to the naked eye but extend deep into the tooth. We examine your teeth for cracks so that we can take preventive action before the tooth suffers severe damage.

Gum Disease Diagnosis

Gum disease is much more common than people think. We will examine your gums for disease and make recommendations based on your specific dental healthcare needs. Regular, careful brushing and flossing are essential to gum health.

Oral Cancer Screening

Currently oral cancer is on the rise in a much younger population; all individuals are at risk for developing oral cancer.  What used to be related to smoking and chewing tobacco is now being linked to very common viruses, making oral cancer a much greater concern for a larger population.  We pride ourselves that each and every patient seen in our practice is given a visual oral cancer screening and we have additional technology called the Velscope® which allows us to catch even the earliest of lesions.