Who Should Have an Oral Cancer Screening?

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While oral cancer may not be the most common form of cancer diagnosed in the United States, this type of cancer does account for around three percent of every case diagnosed within a year. Therefore, oral cancer screenings in Willowbrook, IL are an important step in your overall preventive health plan. One thing patients often wrestle with is whether they should be screened themselves. Here is a closer look at who should be screened, when, and why.

Adults Over the Age of 20

Beyond the age of 20, you should be screened for oral cancer about every three years when you visit the dentist. Your dentist will make sure you get the proper screening every three years as recommended. While cancer of the mouth at this age is considered rare, some young adults can be more at risk than others.

Adults Over the Age of 40

By the time a patient reaches the age of 40, their risks of oral cancer development do grow. Therefore, it is important for an oral cancer screening to be performed every year right along with your dental checkup. If you are over the age of 40 and not sure if your dentist is doing a screening, be sure to bring up the topic at your next dental exam.

All Patients Who Are at Risk of Oral Cancer

Some patients are naturally more at risk for oral cancer regardless of their actual age. These patients should be screened every year. You may be at higher risk of oral cancer if:

  • You use tobacco (regular or smokeless)
  • You regularly consume alcohol
  • You have been diagnosed with human papillomavirus (HPV)
  • You have a family history of cancer
  • You have been diagnosed with oral cancer in the past

Looking for an Oral Cancer Screening in Willowbrook?

Even though any kind of cancer can be scary, oral cancer is considered highly treatable as long as the condition is diagnosed early. If you believe you are at risk for oral cancer or you know it has been a while since you have been screened, it may be time to talk to a Willowbrook dentist for advice. Reach out to us at Dentists of Hinsdale Lake to schedule an appointment.

Best Things You Can Do to Prevent Cavities

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Cavities are caused when a part of your mouth becomes permanently damaged and a hole develops in the tooth enamel. Cavities are caused by a combination of factors including poor dental hygiene or cleaning practices, bacteria in the mouth and habits like sipping sugary drinks. Fortunately, there are many things you can do to prevent cavities in Willowbrook, IL.

Brush with Fluoride

Fluoride helps strengthen your teeth and prevent cavities. Do you know if your toothpaste includes fluoride? If it doesn’t, then you probably need to switch toothpastes.

If you’re looking for additional ways to incorporate fluoride into your oral hygiene routine, buy a fluoride mouthwash from the pharmacy the next time you go. Follow the instructions on the bottle to avoid over-using the mouthwash.

Drink Water from the Tap

Most communities add fluoride to their tap water to help improve their population’s oral hygiene. Water is good for you – much better for you than sugary drinks like soda. If you’re not in the habit of drinking water from the tap, now is the time to start!

Maintain a Healthy Oral Hygiene Routine

Brush your teeth twice per day: once in the morning and once at night. If your teeth feel yucky in the middle of the day, feel free to brush your teeth an extra time! Keep an extra toothbrush and toothpaste at work or in your purse for just such an occasion.

Floss at least once daily, and again after events like a barbecue, when you might have eaten a lot of stringy foods. Talk to your dentist in Willowbrook, IL to find out whether you’re brushing and flossing the right way.

See the Dentist Regularly

One of the best things you can do to avoid cavities is to get regular dental checkups in Willowbrook, IL. Seeing the dentist regularly will help you determine whether you’re at risk for poor dental health, and will also help you decide when you need to make a change to your oral hygiene routine. For more information or to schedule your next dental appointment, call Dentists of Hinsdale Lake to make an appointment.

4 Signs It’s Time to See the Dentist

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How long has it been since your last dental appointment? If you can’t remember, then there’s a good chance that it’s time to see your dentist in Willowbrook, IL.

Your teeth might also be telling you that it’s time to see the dentist – if you know the signs! Below, we’ve listed four signs that it’s time to see your dentist. If you’re experiencing any one of the problems below, it might be time to make an appointment!

1. Your Teeth Are Stained

Teeth become stained over time as they’re exposed to dark-colored foods and drinks, and acidic foods. Some examples of food and drinks that can stain your teeth include:

  • Tea
  • Coffee
  • Tomato sauce
  • Beets
  • Berries
  • Red and white wine

If you consume these types of foods and beverages a lot, then you probably need to see the dentist regularly to prevent your teeth from yellowing.

2. You’re Experiencing Tooth Discomfort

If you’re experiencing tooth pain, then it’s definitely time to see the dentist. Tooth pain could be a sign of an infection, cavity or another problem that needs to be resolved by your dentist. Contact your dentist to make an urgent appointment.

3. It’s Been More Than 6 Months Since Your Last Visit

Most dental professionals recommend that their patients see them every six months – unless that patient needs to see them more frequently because of a condition. If it’s been more than 6 months since your last visit, make an appointment for a dental checkup in Willowbrook IL as soon as possible!

4. You’re Struggling With Bad Breath

Bad breath occurs because of bacteria in your mouth. If you’re struggling with chronic bad breath that won’t go away even when you brush your teeth, this is a sign that you’ve got a buildup of bacteria that could lead to bigger problems.

Bad breath is a sign of a problem and it can also prevent you from enjoying yourself in social situations, so it’s important to get this issue addressed as soon as possible.

Call Dentists of Hinsdale Lake to Make An Appointment

So, is it time for your next dental appointment? What are you waiting for? Make your appointment for a regular dental cleaning today.