Category: General Dentistry

Tips In Preventing Pediatric Dental Emergencies In Markham

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It is not uncommon for parents of toddlers and young children to experience pediatric dental emergencies in Markham. As a parent, you always want to do everything to keep your children safe and healthy. By taking some preventative measures, you can help avoid these emergencies. 

What is a pediatric dental emergency?

A dental emergency is any condition that compromises the tooth’s structure or causes severe pain or bleeding. Most emergency dentists will handle this type of situation. Even though some dental emergencies are unavoidable, parents should be aware of the following causes :

  • Decay

Decay is one of the most common causes of dental emergencies. It can lead to infection and other problems that can cause severe pain and discomfort. 

  • Eating

Dental emergencies can often be caused by poor food choices. Eating candies and excessive consumption of sugary drinks are bad for the teeth and can cause further damage. 

  • Accidents

If your child falls and hits their mouth or if something gets stuck in their teeth, they could end up with a serious problem. Ignoring the problem can make the situation worse. 

Prevention

The reality of dental emergencies is not as bad as you would think and there are a number of things you can do as a parent to ensure that your children will not have to deal with emergency situations. 

1. Teach children how to brush their teeth.

Brushing the teeth should take around 2 minutes for toddlers. They should use a small soft toothbrush that fits in their hands comfortably. In addition to teaching toddlers how to brush their teeth properly, you should also encourage them to use a good amount of toothpaste. Lastly, encourage children to floss if they eat a lot of sugar. 

2. Visiting the dentist regularly.

 It is vital to get your child used to going to the dentist from an early age. Children usually have their first dental appointment at two years old. You can ask your child’s dentist for tips on keeping their teeth healthy. It is advisable to have your child go to the same dentist that they have grown up with.

3. Avoid food items that pose a risk.

Some foods and drinks cause tooth decay. Avoid giving your child foods and drinks that contain sugar. Their diet should be high in calcium and protein, good for their teeth. Make sure that your children will drink plenty of water throughout the day.

4. Let your child wear mouthguards when they play sports.

Children love sports and being active. Unfortunately, many parents do not realize the importance of mouthguards in protecting their children’s teeth. Sports mouthguards can prevent serious dental injuries, such as cracked teeth and concussions. While children are playing on the field, mouthguards keep them safe. 

Takeaway

Emergency dental situations can be expensive, inconvenient, and painful. By following the simple prevention tips mentioned, you can help reduce your child’s risk of experiencing pediatric dental emergencies. If your child needs urgent dental care, don’t hesitate to call your Markham dentist and schedule an appointment. They will be happy to help your child get back to achieving optimal oral health.

Why You Should Go For An Oral Cancer Screening In Markham

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Cancer is a severe disease and can be life-threatening. Oral cancer is no exception. Because of this, regular oral cancer screening in Markham will prevent cancer cells from spreading and reduce the risk of developing into a dangerous disease. In this article, find out the importance of oral cancer screening and how it helps in avoiding the disease.

Symptoms of Oral Cancer

Oral cancer affects the mouth. It may appear on the lips, tongue, gums, or throat. Oral cancer can affect anyone, but men over 50 are more likely to develop it. It usually develops gradually and exhibits the following symptoms :

  • The numbness of the lip or tongue persists
  • Inflammation of the mouth that doesn’t heal for weeks
  • Lumps in the mouth or neck
  • Severe sore throat
  • White and red patches found in the mouth and tongue
  • Swollen jaw
  • Chewing problems
  • Change in voice
  • Drastic weight loss

Don’t ignore any potential red flags. If you see any warning signs of oral cancer, it is necessary to take action right away by consulting your Markham dentist. 

Factors that increase risks of oral cancer

According to the American Cancer Society, various factors may increase a person’s risk of developing cancer. Taking steps to lower your cancer risk can be as easy as knowing the causes of oral cancer. 

  1. Excessive drinking of alcohol increases the risk of developing oral cavity and head and neck cancer. 
  2. Smoking and chewing tobacco can cause irritation and inflammation in the mouth, leading to oral cancer.
  3. Studies show that people with HIV are more likely to develop mouth cancer.
  4. Obesity increases the risk of acquiring cancer in the larynx.
  5. The risk of mouth and throat cancer is high for people with genetic syndromes.

How can oral cancer screening in Markham save your life?

The screening of oral cancer plays a crucial role in your overall health. By finding problems early, there is a greater chance of treatment success. Here are just a few of the benefits of oral cancer screening:

  • Early diagnosis increases the chance of successful treatment.

The treatment can begin as soon as the dentist identifies the early signs. Hence, there is a higher chance of stopping the development of cancer. Furthermore, screenings can also help detect any recurrences of the disease. 

  • It helps identify other problems.

Oral cancer can indicate other health problems in the body, such as pancreatic cancer. The early detection and treatment of oral cancer can help doctors diagnose other diseases such as gum disease at their earliest stages. These early diagnoses can lead to more successful clinical outcomes.

  • The process is convenient and stress-free.

The head and neck cancer examination is non-invasive and usually done during regular check-ups with your dentist. The dentist can complete it within a few minutes.

What happens if your dentist discovers signs of mouth cancer?

Your dentist may recommend the following procedures if he finds precancerous lesions on your mouth: 

  1. A follow-up visit in a few weeks to see if the abnormal area is still present and note whether it has grown or changed over time.
  2. A biopsy is a technique for removing cells for testing in the laboratory to determine whether cancer cells exist. Your dentist may refer you to a doctor specializing in detecting oral cancer.

Self-examination

Before seeing your dentist for mouth cancer screening, it helps to conduct a self-examination once a month.  Below is an oral cancer screening checklist you can follow:

  1. Look and feel your lips and gums using a bright light and mirror.
  2. Try to see and feel the roof of your mouth by tilting your head back.
  3. Then pull out your cheeks to see your mouth and the lining of your cheeks.
  4. Next, check the floor of your mouth. Look at all surfaces of your tongue. 
  5. Last but not least, check your neck and your lower jaw for lumps.

Any type of cancer is dangerous. Don’t let your health reach a point where the prevention of disease is too late. As soon as you notice any changes in your mouth, contact your Markham dentist for treatment options.

Debunking The 5 Myths About Dental Bonding Markham

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Dental bonding Markham is a popular dental restoration that can fix cracked teeth, missing gaps, and crooked teeth. However, there are many myths about dental bonding that persist. This guide will help you to debunk five common myths about teeth bonding. 

Common misconceptions about dental bonding Markham

Myth 1: Bonding can only fix cracked and discoloured teeth. 

Aside from fixing cracked and discoloured teeth, dental bonding is an effective solution to the following dental issues:

  • Teeth gap

The application of resin to the surface of the teeth can fill the gap. The dentist will sculpt the resin into the shape of your desired tooth gap. 

  • Short teeth

Bonding can increase the size of your tooth to match it with the rest. 

  • Decayed teeth

To protect decayed teeth, dentists use composite resins to fill the cavities. A bonding procedure is an alternative to amalgam fillings. 

  • Poorly shaped teeth

By adding resin, it can correct the shape of your teeth. 

Myth 2: Dental bonding procedure is painful.

A lot of people think teeth bonding is painful. However, this treatment is minimally invasive and doesn’t require numbing agents. The dentist moulds a composite resin material during the procedure and attaches it to the tooth. Since it does not involve surgery, the whole process is simple, quick, and comfortable. 

Myth 3: Cosmetic bonding is expensive.

Compared to getting veneers or implants, bonding a tooth is more affordable. The cost of dental bonding can range from 200 CAD to 400 CAD. You can consult your dentist to know if they have flexible payment plans.

Generally, dental bonding costs may vary depending on the following factors:

  • Number of affected teeth
  • Teeth location
  • Dentist’s expertise
  • Dental location
  • Other necessary treatments

Myth 4: You can eat what you want after dental bonding.

After the procedure, your dentist will give you some dietary restrictions to ensure that your newly bonded teeth will not chip or crack. You should not eat certain foods since they could damage the adhesive and cause the bond to fail.

Below is the list of food and drinks you should avoid.

  • Hard foods, which include nuts, candies, and ice
  • Gummies and sticky foods
  • Coffee, soda, wine, and tea
  • Acidic fruit juices that can weaken the teeth
  • Highly pigmented fruits such as blueberries and raspberries

Myth 5: Composite resin bonding does not last.

In general, bonding material lasts between three and ten years before it requires touching up or replacement. It is important to note that the lifespan of your tooth bonding will depend on how you properly take care of them. 

  • Observe a proper oral care routine by brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once daily. 
  • Use a soft-bristled toothbrush.
  • Limit your intake of sweet foods and beverages.
  • Quit smoking.
  • Schedule regular professional cleaning with your dentist. 

Who are eligible for dental bonding?

Those with aesthetic problems with their smile are the best candidates for dental bonding. Patients suffering from severe decay and trauma are not qualified for the procedure.

Bonding is for people with minor tooth issues, such as discolorations, chips, gaps between their teeth, or cracks in their enamel. Since these dental issues do not require major restoration, dental bonding can resolve them.

Dentists recommend that patients should have healthy teeth when they undergo dental bonding. It is essential that the affected teeth have strong roots and that the enamel is intact. 

Enhance your smile today

Dental bonding in Markham is a great way to fix dental problems and can be done in one visit. If you are interested in getting this treatment,  book an appointment with your Markham dentist for a consultation. 

What You Need To Know About Oral Cancer Screening Markham

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Oral cancer is a disease that can be fatal if left untreated. One of the ways to prevent this disease is to conduct oral cancer screening markham. It’s essential to know the risks and symptoms. If you are wondering how your dentist performs the exam, here are the guidelines you should note. 

Who are the people at risk?

Cancer of the mouth can affect the floor of the mouth, tongue, head, neck, or even tonsils. You may be at risk of developing this disease because of the following factors:

  • Excessive smoking
  • Drinking too much alcohol
  • History of oral cancer
  • Too much exposure to the sun

What to expect during the screening?

Generally, you do not need to prepare. Oral cancer screening doesn’t require any special preparation. The dentist performs the screening while you are in for a dental visit. The first thing they will do is conduct a visual exam which includes the following steps:

  • Your dentist will check your mouth for lumps, swellings, or abnormalities.
  • Then they will examine your neck, jawline, lips, cheeks, and face.
  • They will examine your tongue and the inside of your mouth using a mirror.  

The early stages of oral cancer are not painful. However, if left untreated, it can result in the patient’s condition worsening. 

Are there any symptoms of oral cancer? 

If in case you observe the following symptoms, it is best to contact your dentist immediately.

  • a persistent sore throat
  • There are lumps on the cheeks
  • never-healing mouth sore
  • abrasions on the gums, tongue
  • having trouble chewing

What happens if your dentist finds any signs of mouth cancer?

In the event your dental professional discover any symptoms, they may recommend the following :

  • A follow-up visit is needed if any abnormalities persist or worsen after several weeks. 
  • A biopsy involves the removal of samples of cells and submitting them for testing in the laboratory. 

Oral cancer screening is one step forward in protecting your health. If you think your mouth might be at risk, schedule an appointment with your Markham dentist. 

Know These Four Basic Oral Hygiene Tips in Markham

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Maintaining oral hygiene in Markham should be part of your life to have healthy teeth, mouth and gums. Oral health is sometimes overlooked, but people regret it later when they already have oral problems. To avoid consequences and keep a healthy smile, here are a few tips on how to keep your mouth and teeth clean.

1. Brush your teeth properly.

Do you know the proper brushing technique? Here are the three simple steps you should follow.

  • Gently brush your teeth in a circular motion. Your brush should be at a 45-degree angle to also reach your gumline.
  • Do not rush when your brush. Clean your teeth thoroughly for two minutes. 
  • Ensure that you brush all surfaces of your teeth, including your tongue, as well as the inside and outside surfaces.

2. Do not skip flossing.

In most cases, leftover food or debris may get stuck in the crevices of your teeth. They can cause cavities when not removed. That is why it is important to floss. You should floss as follows.

  • Use at least eighteen inches of your dental floss.
  • Between your thumbs and index fingers, hold the floss tightly.
  • Rub the floss between your teeth in a c-shaped motion.
  • You should floss one tooth at a time, sliding the floss in between your gum and tooth.

3. Use a mouthwash.

Brushing and flossing are not enough. You have to ensure that you have added protection from bacteria. You can achieve this by rinsing your mouth with mouthwash. The proper way of doing it is to swish the mouthwash vigorously for thirty seconds. You can do this step at least twice a day. 

4. Know when you should visit your dentist.

Do not forget to schedule regular dental cleanings. Ideally, you should undergo this dental procedure every six to twelve months. Not skipping your dental appointments will make sure that your oral health condition is at its best. Additionally, follow your dentist’s recommendations. 

The last thing you want to do is neglect your oral health care. Don’t let this happen. Schedule an appointment with your Markham dentist to achieve the optimal oral wellness you deserve.

Make your Dental Fillings Markham Last With These Tips

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Getting dental fillings in Markham is a standard procedure. Fillings provide support and protection to your teeth against cavities and decay. Dentists use different types of materials for your tooth filling, depending on your need. Although there are different types of dental fillings, you need to take care of them. We will provide you with tips on how you can take care of your fillings. 

1. Maintain good oral hygiene.

Do not underestimate the importance of brushing and flossing. Although your dental fillings are not high maintenance, you have to brush your teeth at least twice. In this way, you can remove bacteria that cause cavities. In addition, use a mouthwash with fluoride for added protection to the enamel of your teeth. 

2. For two weeks, stay away from sticky, complex, or chewy foods. 

You cannot eat gummies, candies, and ice with newly installed porcelain or gold fillings since they can’t handle them yet. As much as possible, eat soft foods for two weeks. This will help keep your dental appliance firmly in place. Also, refrain from eating acidic foods. 

3. It is essential to check your bite.

You will need to check if your bite is comfortable to avoid any discomfort in your teeth. Not all composite fillings harden instantly. Consult your dentist if you experience any irregularities.

4.  If you are feeling pain, painkillers may help. 

When your anesthesia wears off, you will feel slight pain and sensitivity on your teeth. Do not be alarmed since this is the usual side effect. To relieve your pain, you can take ibuprofen. Nevertheless, if the inflammation persists for more than a week, you should call your dentist right away. 

5. Routine dental checkups are essential.

Dentists recommend regular cleanings to prevent cavities and decay.  Moreover, they can check the condition of your teeth and treat early signs of any oral disease. Don’t delay getting a professional cleaning of your teeth. 

Your Markham dentist is just one appointment away. Schedule an appointment today to enjoy life without teeth problems!

Here’s How Dental Implants Can Bring Back Your Confidence

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Dental implants are replacement teeth. Dental implant surgery involves adding metal posts into the jawbone under the gums. From there, your dentist can then add replacement teeth that sit on top of the implant. A dental implant is often preferred over dentures, depending on the patient’s oral health.

Benefits of dental implants

Other than the obvious benefit of dental implants replacing missing teeth, this procedure has other primary advantages:

  • Makes eating easier

Dental implants act just like natural teeth, so you’ll be able to eat without any pain or worry. Other teeth replacements like dentures tend to slide around, therefore making chewing a chore.

  • Durable and easy to maintain

As long as you’re keeping up or improving your dental habits, your implants will last you a long time.

  • Improves your appearance

They blend in so easily with your natural teeth! In most cases, they are foolproof, and no one will even know that those aren’t your real teeth.

  • Improves your speech

Other teeth replacement options like dentures tend to slip therefore affecting the way you speak. Since dental implants are permanent, you won’t have that same issue.

  • Improves oral health

Tooth implants are one of the better procedures for replacing missing teeth. This procedure focuses on repairing the affected area while also avoiding harm in other areas of the mouth.

The success of an implant varies on the exact location, nevertheless, they have a 98% success rate. These dental screws may cost more than dentures, but they are more durable.

Maintenance and aftercare of dental implants

Usually, a single tooth implant procedure takes less than 2 hours. However, it can still vary depending on the patient’s condition. Just because your dental implant isn’t a natural tooth does not mean it requires zero maintenance. Your dental hygiene routine should be maintained or should be improved once you have your implant.

After your procedure, your gums will be tender and sensitive. When brushing, use soft bristles and do so gently. Avoid using abrasive toothpaste to brush on your implant, which can cause micro-scratches, leading to bacteria and plaque.

When flossing, proceed as you usually would. You may also benefit from using a water or air flosser in rotation with regular flossing. 

The lifespan of dental implants depends on how stable your jawbone is. Depending on the type of dental implant your dentist recommends to you, there may be some special care instructions.

Are you thinking of getting dental implants to help with your smile? Contact our dentist in Markham today for an appointment!

Want Your Dental Bonding Markham To Last? Read This!

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Dental bonding in Markham is a common cosmetic dental procedure that can improve the appearance of your teeth.  If you just had your dental bonding, it is important to be aware of the foods that can affect the durability and life span of your bond. In this blog post, you will know the foods that can easily stain your newly bonded teeth. 

Is dental bonding prone to discolouration?

The answer is yes. While dental bonding is a relatively simple procedure, it is not without its risk. During the dental bonding procedure, the dentist uses a substance called composite resin on your tooth. Composite resin is prone to staining which is why it is important to avoid food and beverages that can affect the colour of your newly bonded teeth. 

What are the foods and beverages to avoid after dental bonding?

1. Dark chocolate

Everyone knows that dark chocolate is a delicious treat, but did you know that it can also stain your teeth? While the staining potential of dark chocolate may not be as bad as coffee or red wine, it’s still something to be aware of if you want to keep your bonded teeth as white as possible. 

Although your dentist will not ask you to forever give up the chocolates,  it is recommended that you will not eat them for at least a week after the teeth bonding procedure. 

2. Dark-coloured berries

Cherries, pomegranates, blackberries and blueberries are fruits that can cause teeth stains.  In addition to these, you also need to avoid any juice, jams, and pies that use these berries as ingredients. Aside from staining your teeth, the high acid content of these fruits can weaken the enamel of your teeth. 

3. Pasta sauces and curry

One of the many dangers of eating spicy food is the potential for curry and pasta sauces to stain your teeth. The tomato-based sauces can cling to your teeth, making them appear yellow or brown. After eating these foods, you have to brush your teeth to remove the stain.

4. Fruit juices

The acidity of orange juice and other fruit juices can weaken your teeth. Consume fewer of these beverages and opt for lighter alternatives such as water. 

5. Red wine 

If you’re a fan of red wine, you may be concerned about the potential staining effects it can have on your teeth. Furthermore, since it has acid content it can weaken the enamel of your teeth which can result in cavities. If in case you have consumed red wine, it is best to brush your teeth after. 

6. Ice

If you have dental bonding done, your dentist will likely tell you not to chew ice. If you chew ice, the sharp edges of the ice can chip or break the dental bond. This could mean that the bond is no longer secure and needs to be repaired, which can be a costly and time-consuming process. So if you’ve just had dental bonding, steer clear of those pesky ice cubes. 

Tips on taking care of your newly bonded teeth

If you’ve just had a dental bonding procedure, congratulations! However, it’s important to take care of your teeth after bonding to ensure that the results are long-lasting. Here are a few teeth bonding aftercare tips that you can follow. 

  1. After your teeth bonding, your teeth become sensitive for a few days. During this time, avoid hot or cold foods to lessen the discomfort. 
  2. Brush your teeth regularly with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
  3. Do not skip flossing.
  4. If you are playing contact sports, make sure to wear a mouthguard.
  5. Do not use your teeth in opening bottles or packages. 
  6. Visit your dentist regularly.

Improve the appearance of your teeth

If you want your dental bonding to last, schedule an appointment with your Markham dentist. They can help ensure that the bonding is applied correctly and will take care of any issues that crop up in the future. They’ll also give you tips on how to keep it looking great for as long as possible. 

Why People Fall In Love With Dental Implants Markham

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What could be more beautiful than a perfect smile? For many people, dental implants are the best way to achieve this. Dental implants not only look natural, but they also feel like your own teeth. In this blog post, you will know the reasons why people love dental implants in Markham and how they can help achieve your desired smile. 

What are the benefits of dental implants?

Missing teeth can cause several problems, from difficulty chewing and speaking to shifting of the remaining teeth. Although implants are the way to replace missing teeth, they also offer other advantages. 

1. They are durable and low maintenance.

As long as you follow an oral care routine and improve your dental habits, your implants can last for several years. 

2. They can improve your oral health.

Dental implants are one of the most popular and effective methods of replacing missing teeth. Moreover, it can improve oral health by restoring the function and aesthetics of the smile. 

3. They improve your speech.

Because dental implants are permanent, they won’t slip away unlike dentures which can affect the way you speak. It provides a stable foundation for teeth replacement which provides speech clarity. 

4. They make eating easier.

Since they are like natural teeth, they can improve your eating habits. They will allow you to eat all your favourite foods without worrying about them getting stuck in your teeth. Moreover, since it is permanent, chewing will become more natural and easier.  

How the dentist performs the procedure?

If you are missing one or more teeth, you may be a candidate for dental implants. How a dentist performs a dental implants procedure may vary from one office to another, but the basics of the treatment stay pretty much the same. 

1. Initial evaluation

It is important to have a comprehensive examination to help evaluate the condition of the jawbone. During the evaluation, the dentist will capture the impressions of your teeth to match the colour of your implants to your natural teeth. Aside from getting the impressions of your teeth, they will also conduct dental x-rays to know how many teeth need replacement. 

2. Tooth extraction

During dental implant surgery, your dentist will remove any remaining teeth that need to be replaced. For you to not feel any pain during extraction, they will use local anesthesia. Extraction will be completed in a short time unless the tooth is injured. 

3. Inserting the implant and bone grafting

For the implants procedure to be successful, your jaw needs to be strong. If in case your jaw needs an additional bone, your dentist will perform bone grafting. They will first let your bone heal before they will place the implant. As soon as your implant is added to the jawbone, it will grow and become part of your gum line. The healing process varies from one person to another but usually, it will take 3 months to 9 months.

4. Abutment placement

Once the implant is stable, your dentist will place a piece that will connect to your crown. This piece is called an abutment. The dentist will make sure that it is tight so it firmly stays when you eat. 

5. Adding the crown

You will receive an artificial tooth or crown once your gums have healed. Your dentist will give you an option if you want a removable implant or a permanent one. In this case, you can ask your dentist what is suitable for your teeth’ condition. 

What to expect after your surgery?

After you have the surgery, there are some things that you can expect. Follow these guidelines to ensure a successful recovery. 

  • Recovery time may vary depending on the individual, but many people find that they can return to work within a week. 
  • There may be some swelling and bruising after but it will go away within a few days.
  • Practice good oral care habits.
  • Follow the instructions of your dentist and visit them regularly. 

Restore your smile

You deserve to be able to smile with confidence. Schedule an appointment today with your Markham dentist and they will help you find the best dental implants for your budget and personal needs.

Is Oral Cancer Screening Markham A Scam? Read this!

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An oral cancer screening in Markham is a vital part of oral health care, right? There is a lot of debate surrounding oral cancer screenings. Some people believe that they are a scam, while others find them to be an important way to detect the disease early on. So, what is the truth? 

What is oral cancer screening?

Oral cancer screening helps identify early signs of mouth cancer and provides the best chance for successful treatment. It may include a physical examination of the head and neck, dental x-rays, and other tests. Knowing which type of oral cancer screening is right for you is an important step in protecting your oral health.

Why you should get it?

When you hear the word cancer, what comes to mind? For most people, it is a fear of the unknown. While many forms of cancer are deadly, oral cancer is highly treatable when caught early. Here are just a few of the benefits of oral cancer screening:

1. Early detection save lives

Oral cancer screenings can detect tumours in their early stages when they are easiest to treat.

2. It’s quick and easy.

A simple mouth exam takes just a few minutes and can be performed by your dentist during your regular check-up.

3. It’s affordable.

Oral cancer screenings are typically covered during your regular dental exam. It will only be necessary to spend more when the disease has been diagnosed and additional treatment is needed. 

Signs and symptoms of oral cancer

Oral cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the mouth. It can affect the lips, tongue, gums, roof of the mouth, and other parts of the head and neck. In addition, it is often diagnosed early because it causes visible changes in the mouth.

However, many people don’t notice these changes until the diseases have progressed. That is why it is important to know the warning signs of oral cancer and see your dentist regularly for check-ups. 

  • Lumps in the mouth or neck
  • Persistent feeling of numbness on the lip or tongue 
  • White and red patches on the lining of the mouth and tongue
  • A change in speech
  • Mouth sores that do not heal for weeks
  • Swelling or pain in the jaw
  • Struggling in chewing
  • Severe sore throat

What happens during the examination?

When you go in for your regular dental checkup, your dentist will also perform an oral cancer exam. This is an important part of your overall health care and it can help to detect any potential problems with your mouth early on.  Here are the oral cancer screening steps your dentist will perform.

  1. Before the screening, if you are wearing any dental appliances make sure to remove them so your dentist can examine your mouth fully.
  2. The dentist will then check any swelling, bumps or abnormalities in your mouth.
  3. They will also check your face, neck, lips, jaw and even your nose. 
  4. Using a light and a mirror, they will check the back of your tongue and mouth. 
  5. They will also feel for any abnormal nodules or masses on your face and neck. 

In some cases, the dentist will use special dyes and lights to look for signs of oral cancer. Some of these tests include:

  • Fluorescence staining

After using a fluorescent mouth rinse, a special light is used to identify abnormal tissues.

  • Exfoliative cytology

The process of removing cells from the mouth with a cotton swab, a wooden stick, or a brush and examining them under a microscope for abnormalities.

  • Toluidine blue stain

Using a blue dye to coat mouth lesions to determine if the areas are developing into cancer.  

Visit your dentist today

Oral cancer is a serious and deadly threat to your health. It doesn’t discriminate between gender or age and can affect you whether you’re young or old, male or female. Everyone must be aware of this disease and the best way to prevent it from happening is by visiting your Markham dentist regularly.