Jon Frankel Dentistry

Category Archive: Oral Cancer

  1. Diabetes and the Dentist? 5 Connections and 5 Tips

    November 14th is National Diabetes Day. Patients know they need to monitor their blood sugar with diet and medication but what about dental care. Is there a connection?

    Five Connections Between Diabetes and Dental Health

    Dry Mouth

    A reduction of saliva because of diabetes can lead to dry mouth. Dental patients with dry mouth are at a higher risk of decay.

    Gum Disease

    Gum disease is a cause of tooth loss. Swollen, bleeding gums, and bone loss are symptoms of gum disease. Those with diabetes are susceptible to periodontitis partially due to elevated sugar levels and bacterial growth.

    Infection

    The immune system can be weakened by diabetes. Those with diabetes can be more susceptible to oral infections.

    Slower Healing Time

    Delayed healing time may mean dental patients take longer to recover from treatment. It may also increase the risk of infection.

    Blood Sugar Complications

    Uncontrolled diabetes may increase the glucose in saliva creating an ideal environment for bacterial biofilm or dental plaque formation. Bacterial plaque is associated with dental decay and gum disease.

     

    What to do!

     

    Regular Dental Check Ups

    See your dentist every three months for cleanings and checkups. Brush and floss daily. Keep your dentist informed regarding your diabetes.

    Be Aware

    Keep an eye out for signs of dental disease such as red swollen gums, bleeding, or tooth

    discomfort.

    Stay in Charge

    Visit your healthcare provider at regular intervals and keep your blood sugar at the levels recommended.

    Drink Water

    Stay hydrated to keep dry mouth under control.

    Do not Smoke

    Smoking can exacerbate disease and quitting will improve dental and overall health.

  2. Oral Cancer Awareness Month

    November is National Mouth Cancer Awareness Month. Did you know over 300,000 cases rise a year? 

    There are dozens of habits and behaviors which may contribute to mouth cancer development but we’re here to bring awareness to the signs and help encourage preventative care. Cancer of the mouth may develop due to smoking, poor eating habits, and poor oral hygiene, untreated sores or ulcers and more. 

    Did you know at Frankel Dentistry during your comprehensive dental exams performed by our doctors, we take the time to look for any signs of cancer. We will work with you every step to ensure we can provide the best care for your needs. 

    Any dentist will tell you smoking can damage not just your lungs but mouth and throat. As a preventative care suggestion, putting a stop to all tobacco products can help limit the amount of carcinogens you are exposed to. We also advise you to establish a strong and efficient oral care routine to promote a healthier lifestyle.

    If you have any concerns regarding your oral health or dental health needs please call our Toledo or Maumee office to schedule an appointment today.

     

  3. What is your mouth not telling you? April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month

     

     

    April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month
    Get screened today!

    April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month which includes cancer of the mouth, tongue, tonsil or throat. Risk factors for oral cancer include a long term use of tobacco and alcohol as well as exposure to the HPV-16 virus (human papilloma virus version 16) which is also responsible for a large majority of cervical cancers in women.

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    Cancers of the mouth are the most preventable. Ways you can reduce your risk of oral cancer include:
    – Avoid tobacco in all forms.
    – Consume alcohol in moderation.
    – Practice safety in the sun by limiting your exposure and wear SPF
    – Remove your dentures every night and clean them daily
    – Visit your dentist for your routine exams and cleanings
    Frankel Dentistry (2)
    Most importantly, oral exams will help detect any signs or symptoms of oral cancer. At Frankel Dentistry, we provided oral cancer screenings with your exam. If you wear dentures, we are able to evaluate them to ensure they are in good condition.
    Heather and Tami
    Please help spread the word and help educate your family and friends about oral cancer this month.