Patients who receive regular preventive care have significantly fewer problems over time. This proactive approach prevents conditions from worsening which requires more treatment, time and financial commitment. Patients who receive dental cleanings every six months receive a cleaning and exam. Even with a good at-home care routine, deposits of plaque called tartar form on your teeth and if left untreated can produce a toxic environment for your teeth and gums, which leads to gum disease. Once this happens treatment for gum disease can be much more intensive than a simple dental cleaning where tartar is gently removed before a polish.

• We know that oral cancer kills more people than skin cancer and cervical cancer.
• Oral cancer can afflict anyone although tobacco users put themselves at significantly higher risk than non-users. Chewing tobacco contains up to 3000 different chemicals, including the same compounds used in pesticides and embalming fluid. Cellular changes below the surface aren’t always detectable until they’ve advanced to a critical stage.
• Approximately 30,000 cases of oral cancer are diagnosed each year.
• The five-year survival rate is less than 18%.
• Early detection increases the survival rate to 80%.
• Our team is committed to seeing those numbers drop by early detection. We will be doing an intra-oral and extra-oral exam each time you come to our office for a hygiene appointment.
• If we suspect any unusual changes in your mouth tissue, we may suggest a biopsy and microscopic analysis by a qualified lab.
  Many other non-cancerous changes can occur in your mouth’s tissue, from oral warts to autoimmune lesions.
  We understand tobacco holds powerful addictive powers over many health-conscious people. If you’re determined to quit, we want to be a supportive partner in your efforts. Talk to your hygienist or Dr. Ranola about strategies and resources for kicking the habit.

Your dental team will provide you a customized program to achieve your smile goals. Think of us as a personal trainer for your smile. We write your programming, recommend products to help your journey, and provide support, motivation, and encouragement. Like regular exercise, consistent dental care builds to enhance your health.

Recommendations At A Glance

• Brush twice daily, for two minutes each time
• Use an electric toothbrush (ask your hygienist for recommendations)
• Floss twice daily (consider a Waterpik to make flossing easier)
• Choose a toothpaste that serves your smile goals (ask your hygienist for recommendations)

A customized dental care plan for everyone, at every age and every stage, can transform your oral health. Our dental team is here to guide you on your health care journey.