Welcome everyone to another edition of the Doctor's Note, where we talk about what’s on our minds when it comes to your health.
This week I'm thrilled to share a conversation I had with the knowledgeable Dr. Susan Creech, DDS about the vital role of oral cancer screenings. As we’ve discussed, these screenings are crucial and should be part of every dental cleaning. During the podcast, Dr. Creech introduced me to Vizilite, an incredible device that uses biofluorescence technology to spot dangerous lesions long before they become visible to the naked eye. This allows us to catch potential issues early, significantly improving the chances of successful treatment.
We can't underestimate the importance of a proactive approach to oral health. Issues in the mouth can often be related to broader health concerns like heart disease, so regular screenings are essential. In our chat, we talked about factors like smoking, HPV, and alcohol use, which increase the risk of oral cancer. It’s clear that addressing these risks and investing in thorough screenings—even beyond what insurance covers—is a fundamental step toward better overall health. Good oral health isn't just confined to your mouth, it impacts your entire well-being, reinforcing why prevention is always better than cure. An important podcast to watch and share!
PODCAST NOTES
Oral cancer is on the rise with more than 50,000 cases diagnosed in the United States each year. This statistic alone is reason enough for oral cancer screenings to be an integral part of routine dental checkups.
Oral cancer screenings enable the early detection of potential problems, which is critical as the earlier cancer is discovered, the better the chances for successful treatment. Missing out on these screenings can mean missing the window for early intervention.
Vizilite represents a breakthrough in dental health technology by employing biofluorescence. This innovation allows us to see suspicious areas beneath the surface that might not be immediately visible, ensuring we don’t overlook any hidden threats that could develop into serious issues if left unchecked.
Catching oral cancer in its initial stages can significantly increase the success rate of treatment. This means not only higher survival rates, but also potentially less invasive treatment options and better quality of life post-treatment, making early screenings a critical measure.
Major risk factors like smoking, the presence of HPV, and heavy alcohol use are predominantly associated with oral cancer. This knowledge empowers patients to make informed lifestyle decisions to mitigate their risk. Awareness is the first step towards prevention, and modifying these behaviors can have a profound impact on oral health.
There is a compelling connection between oral health and heart health. Bacteria and inflammation originating in the mouth can contribute to broader system-wide health problems, particularly in the cardiovascular system, underscoring the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups.
While controversy exists around mercury fillings, their irritation potential shouldn't be ignored. The debate continues over their possible association with oral health concerns, motivating many to opt for their removal and replacement with safer alternatives to prevent any adverse effects.
Despite limited insurance coverage, comprehensive screenings are invaluable investments in personal health. These advanced oral examinations can provide peace of mind and potentially life-saving early warnings, making their cost-worthiness evident when considering their significant health benefits.
Regular screenings are not solely about preventing cancer, but also play a vital role in detecting harmful dental plaque, bacteria, and yeast infections early. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent more severe health complications later, keeping your mouth—and by extension, your whole body—healthy.
Taking care of your oral health is more than about having a bright smile—it's a vital part of your overall health strategy. By using advanced tools and committing to regular check-ups, we can detect potential issues early. Prioritizing your oral health can lead to improved heart health and a more energized life. Everything's interconnected, and good oral health is a cornerstone of feeling your best.
Stay educated. Stay healthy.
Till next week.
