If the question, “How often do you floss?” is the part of your dental appointment you dread, it may be time to make some changes. Unlike brushing, flossing does not have the instant gratification of cleaner teeth and fresher breath, but the impact of flossing on your tooth and gum health can be amazing. Even more importantly, flossing reduces the risk for and the side effects of numerous chronic and systemic illnesses as well. A recent BBC series discussing oral health in the UK presented some startling evidence that has been interpreted as stating that flossing isn’t essential to oral hygiene. The truth is that the British Dental Association evidence actually said that only brushing has the years of research and longevity studies in the UK that proves necessity as part of regular hygiene routines. While the jury is still out on the effects of flossing in the UK, the American Dental Association studies reveal brushing alone isn’t enough to remove plaque between teeth. Flossing is essential to oral health, especially in prevention of gum disease, one of the most common oral health concerns, the leading cause of tooth loss in the US, and the reason for many of the whole body health concerns related to poor oral health. Find out more about how flossing may help you prevent dental and whole body health concerns below, or contact your Toledo dentistry team at Dental Group West.
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Find out How Oral and Overall Health Connect from Your Family Dentist Toledo
November 16, 2015
When Was Your Last Oral Cancer Screening?
January 10, 2015
The American Cancer Society estimates that more than 36,000 people will be diagnosed with oral cancer this year, and the disease will cause over 6,000 deaths. The single greatest factor affecting the oral cancer survival rate is the stage at which the cancer is discovered. Detecting the disease in its earlier stages can mean the difference between life and death. Each time you visit our office, we will examine you to look for signs of oral cancer, as part of your routine dental checkup. Skipping your semi-annual dental appointment means that you’re not getting the oral cancer screenings you need to protect your health. Don’t gamble with your good health. Make your oral cancer screening appointment with Dr. Thomas, Dr. Poole, or Dr. Weisenburger at Dental Group West today. Dental Group West proudly serves patients of all ages Toledo, OH, Bowling Green, Sylvania, Oregon, Perrysburg, and the surrounding communities.
What Causes Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer can develop in anyone at anytime, but men are twice as likely to develop the disease as women, and the risk for everyone increases with age. The exact triggering mechanisms that cause the changes in DNA that lead to oral cancer is still unknown. However, behavioral factors that heighten the risk for developing oral cancer include:
- Using any tobacco products
- Drinking alcohol
- Poor oral hygiene
- Poor nutrition
- Contracting the human papilloma virus (HPV)
- Excessive sun exposure
What are the symptoms of Oral Cancer?
The most common oral cancer symptoms include:
- red or white patches in or near the mouth
- a lump anywhere near your mouth or throat
- mouth ulcers that don’t heal
- persistent pain in the mouth
- changes in the tone of your voice
- swollen lymph nodes
- sudden unexplained weight loss
- bleeding or numbness in the mouth
- loosened teeth
- difficulty moving your jaw or chewing
- pain or difficulty when swallowing
Oral Cancer Screening Appointments in Toledo, OH
If you, or someone you love, are at a heightened risk for developing oral cancer, make an appointment with Dental Group West for an oral cancer screening today. The experienced dentists of Dental Group West are trusted general dentistry practitioners, now proudly serving families throughout Toledo, OH, Bowling Green, Sylvania, Oregon, Perrysburg, and nearby areas.