Category: Oral Care

What Happens If I Do Not Get a Regular Dental Checkup?

Regular visits to the dentist for regular dental checkups are crucial for keeping your mouth healthy. Regular checkups help to identify and treat existing issues, such as cavities, gum disease, plaque build-up, and other problems that can lead to more serious conditions. However, many people fail to keep up with regular appointments due to cost or time constraints. Unfortunately, neglecting regular checkups can seriously affect your oral health.

What Happens If You Don’t Get a Regular Dental Checkup?

If you don’t visit a dentist near you for regular checkups, several issues can arise:

1. Plaque Build-Up

The most common consequence of not visiting the dentist regularly is plaque build-up. Plaque is made up of bacteria and forms on your teeth when food particles and saliva mix. If left unchecked, plaque can cause serious damage to your gums and tooth enamel. Regular dental checkups are necessary to remove any built-up plaque before it causes lasting damage to your mouth.

2. Cavities & Tooth Decay

Plaque buildup can also lead to cavities if it isn’t removed in time. Cavities are caused by acid-producing bacteria that eat away at the tooth’s enamel. If left untreated, cavities can cause severe pain and even lead to tooth loss. Visiting the dentist regularly is necessary for identifying any signs of cavities in their early stages so they can be treated before they do serious damage.

3. Gum Disease

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, occurs when plaque isn’t removed between your teeth and gums. The buildup causes inflammation and infection of the gums, which can eventually cause tooth loss if it’s not addressed in time. Regular checkups are a vital part of keeping gum disease at bay.

Conclusion

Maintaining regular dental checkups is essential for keeping your mouth healthy and preventing serious complications like cavities, gum disease, or tooth loss. It’s important to visit the dentist regularly so that any existing issues can be spotted and treated in their early stages.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How often should I visit the dentist for a regular checkup?

Answer: The American Dental Association recommends visiting the dentist at least twice a year for regular cleanings and checkups. Depending on your oral health needs, your dental team will recommend how often you should come in.

Q: What happens during regular dental checkups?

Answer: During regular visits, your dentist will examine your mouth and teeth for any signs of existing issues or developing problems. They’ll also clean and polish your teeth to help remove plaque buildup and freshen up your breath.

Q: Are regular dental checkups really necessary?

Answer: Yes, regular dental checkups are essential for keeping your mouth healthy and preventing serious conditions like gum disease, cavities, and tooth loss. Visiting the dentist regularly is the best way to ensure that you maintain a healthy smile for years to come.

Understanding Tooth Sensitivity and its Causes

Millions of people suffer from tooth sensitivity, but many don’t understand what it is or why they have it. If you’ve ever experienced a sudden sharp pain in your teeth when consuming hot or cold food, you are likely dealing with tooth sensitivity. Let’s look at the most common causes of this common condition.

What is Tooth Sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity is a common condition that causes discomfort or pain when exposed to temperature extremes, such as eating hot or cold foods and drinks or even breathing in cold air. It typically involves a sharp, sudden jolt of pain which quickly subsides when the stimulus is removed. This pain may be due to exposure of dentin (the layer under the enamel of teeth) by receding gums, worn tooth enamel, tooth decay, damage caused by teeth grinding (bruxism), gum disease, dental procedures such as bleaching or filling cavities, or other dental problems.

5 Common Causes of Tooth Sensitivity

Let’s look at the most common causes of this common condition.

1. Tooth Decay

One of the most common causes of tooth sensitivity is decay. When tooth enamel erodes away, it exposes the inner layers of the teeth, which are much more sensitive than enamel and can cause pain when exposed to temperature extremes or other irritants. Decay happens for several reasons, including poor oral hygiene, sugary diets, smoking, or drinking alcohol. If left untreated, decay can cause cavities, worsening tooth sensitivity and leading to further damage.

2. Gum Disease

Another common source of tooth sensitivity is gum disease, which occurs when plaque buildup results in infection and inflammation of the gums around your teeth. This can cause receding gums that expose parts of your teeth that are normally protected by enamel and dentin layers, leading to extreme discomfort when exposed to certain foods and beverages. Gum disease can be caused by poor oral hygiene habits and lifestyle factors such as smoking and eating unhealthy foods.

3. Cracked Teeth

Cracked teeth can also lead to sensitivity because cracks allow bacteria and other substances to enter the inner portion of the teeth where nerves are located. The cracks may be visible or microscopic – either way, they can create openings for bacteria and irritants to enter and trigger an uncomfortable reaction in your teeth. Cracked teeth occur due to improper oral care habits like grinding your teeth while sleeping or hard foods such as ice cubes that damage healthy enamel layers.

4. Grinding Habits

Grinding your teeth is another habit that can increase tooth sensitivity because it wears down enamel layers over time; this exposes sensitive areas underneath the surface that become vulnerable to pain when exposed to cold temperatures or acidic foods/drinks. To prevent grinding-related problems, consider investing in a mouth guard that fits comfortably over your teeth so you won’t grind them while sleeping at night (an activity we often do without realizing it).

5. Aging & Wear & Tear

As we age, our dental health changes too; enamel wears away with age leaving us more prone to developing cavities and gum disease – both of which increase our chances of experiencing painful episodes related to tooth sensitivity. In addition, everyday wear & tear on our teeth from brushing too hard or using abrasive products can accelerate these issues even more, so it’s important to practice good dental hygiene habits now in order to avoid future problems later on down the road!

Final Words

Tooth sensitivity is a very common problem, but there are ways to prevent it from getting worse over time through proper oral care practices like brushing twice daily with a soft-bristled brush and flossing regularly; avoiding acidic foods/drinks; visiting your dentist regularly; wearing a protective mouth guard while sleeping; avoiding smoking/alcohol use; reducing sugar intake, etc., all play an important role in maintaining healthy dental hygiene habits! With some simple lifestyle changes combined with regular dentist visits, you’ll be able to keep those pearly whites safe from painful episodes related to tooth sensitivity!

FAQs:

Q. What are the Symptoms of Tooth Sensitivity?

Answer: The most common symptom of tooth sensitivity is a sudden shooting pain when exposed to certain temperatures such as hot or cold food and drinks, ice cream or cold air. Other possible symptoms include a tingling sensation in the teeth when eating sweet food or drinking acidic beverages like soda; sensitivity to brushing and flossing; and tenderness when touching the affected area.

Q. How Can I Treat Tooth Sensitivity?

Answer: Depending on what’s causing your sensitivity, there are several treatment options available from simple at-home remedies to more involved professional treatments. For mild cases at home you can try using special desensitizing toothpastes containing potassium nitrate which blocks off nerve pathways in sensitive areas and reduces inflammation. You should also pay close attention to your brushing technique – use gentle circular motions with a soft-bristled brush instead of scrubbing back and forth – as well as any possible dietary changes you need to make if acidity levels in food or drinks may be playing a role. For more severe cases it’s best to consult with your dentist who may suggest one of several professional treatments such as fluoride varnish applied directly onto the affected area combined with desensitizing agents like calcium phosphate paste in order to strengthen diminished enamel structure and reduce discomfort associated with sensitivities.

What Should You Do For Healthy Teeth?

Maintaining the health of one’s teeth and gums necessitates good dental hygiene. Brushing your teeth twice a day and visiting your Winchester dentist regularly are both important. On the other hand, oral health is about more than avoiding cavities and gum disease. According to studies, there is a link between dental health and general health. Oral health problems, according to experts, are a global problem. Tooth decay and gum disease, if left untreated, can result in pain, loss of self-confidence, and tooth loss. Malnutrition, speech impairments, and other problems in a person’s employment, school, or personal life can result from these issues. Our dentists at Smiles Of Virginia will tell you how to maintain healthy teeth in this blog.

What Should You Do For Healthy Teeth?

People can avoid these issues by brushing and flossing their teeth at home and the dentist’s office. The following tips from your dentist in Winchester are some of the most effective ways to keep your teeth and gums healthy.

Brushing Daily Is Essential

Brushing teeth twice a day is one of the essential habits for eliminating plaque and bacteria and keeping teeth clean, as most people are aware. Brushing, on the other hand, may only be successful if it is done correctly. Brushing each tooth’s front, back, and top should be done in small circular motions. This procedure takes about 2 to 3 minutes to complete. Sawing motions that go back and forth should be avoided. Tooth enamel and gums can be harmed by brushing too forcefully or with a firm-bristled toothbrush. Tooth soreness, permanent damage to the protective enamel of the teeth, and gum erosion are all possible side effects. Brushes should be replaced every three months or when the bristles begin to fray, whichever occurs first.

Visit Our Dental Office Consistently

According to experts, patients should see their dental care professional every six months for a checkup. A hygienist will clean your teeth and remove plaque and tartar during an essential dental examination. The dentist will check for cavities, gum disease, oral cancer, and other health issues. They may utilize dental X-rays to check for cavities on occasion. According to the findings of a recent study, children and teenagers should visit the dentist every six months to avoid cavities. Adults who maintain regular dental hygiene and are at minimal risk of developing oral health concerns, on the other hand, may be permitted to visit less frequently. If you detect any changes in your mouth, contact your Winchester dentist.

Floss Daily

Your dentist in Winchester will suggest pushing the floss down to the gumline before embracing the tooth with up-and-down motions. Snapping the floss between the teeth can cause pain and impair the efficacy of plaque removal.

Avoid Smoking

Smoking damages the immune system, making it difficult for the body to heal tissues, including those in the mouth. Smoking also degrades the appearance of the mouth, causing yellowing of the teeth and tongue, as well as a foul odor in the breath.

We hope this blog helps you to learn more about good dental health. Get in touch with us at Smiles Of Virginia for the best dental care procedures in Winchester, VA.

What Are Bad Breath And Their Various Causes?

A bad breath can impact both your personal and professional life. It can be uncomfortable because none of those who experience it from you tells you. Instead, they tell your problem to others. The unpleasant odor prevents others from approaching you. People will try not to talk with you or avoid conversation as soon as possible when they experience bad breath from you. It is a widespread problem faced by many people worldwide, and there are various causes for it too. 

Maintaining oral hygiene can play a vital role in keeping bad breath at bay. You should recognize the bad breath problem by yourself and take the necessary steps to limit it. Brushing twice a day, flossing after eating meals, rinsing the mouth using mouthwash are some of the important steps you should take to keep your oral health intact. If you cannot manage your bad breath problem, then visit your nearest dentist in Winchester for professional help. 

Causes of Bad Breath

There could be various causes of bad breath. One of the causes could be the dry mouth that occurs due to some illnesses or as a side effect of taking various medications. Dry mouth occurs due to the reduced quantity of saliva in the mouth. Saliva is of utmost importance in moistening the mouth. It also acts as a cleansing agent by neutralizing the acids produced by the bacteria.

Drinking water regularly is one of the ways to limit bad breath. Furthermore, saliva helps remove dead cells that accumulate in the tongue, cheeks, and gums. The lack of saliva prevents the removal of these decomposed cells, due to which bad breath occurs in the person. 

Lack of proper oral hygiene, problems with dentures, gum disease, and tooth decay are other reasons why bad breath occurs in people. Particular food and beverages such as garlic and onion can also cause bad breath. Smoking is also one of the reasons for halitosis. The foul odor in the morning, while you wake up, is because of the slowing down of saliva production during sleep. The accumulation of plaque and dead cells also causes bad breath while you wake up.  

Check with the best dentist in Winchester, VA, to know more about the various treatment plans for it. The dentist will try to identify the causes of bad breath. Good dental hygiene is the foremost solution for it. Therefore ensure that you always follow good oral hygiene to prevent the halitosis from occurring.   

What role does saliva play in your oral health?

We all have saliva in our mouths. It is produced by the mouth, especially oral mucous and salivary glands. Water constitutes most of the ingredients present in the watery mixture of secretions, also known as saliva. Apart from water, it also consists of mucus, different enzymes, antibacterial compounds, and electrolytes. 

Salivary Glands

Our mouth consists of three major salivary glands followed by a few minor glands. These major glands mostly produce saliva. The role of minor glands in the production of saliva is negligible. But still, those present around our oral cavity produce saliva. The nature of secretions may, however, vary. It can be thick, or it can be watery. The enzymes present in the saliva are mostly ions and salivary proteins. All this plays an important role in your oral hygiene. 

Benefits of Saliva in Oral Health

Saliva plays the role of a cleansing agent within the mouth. It also facilitates the easy digestion of food. The taste buds of our tongues are stimulated with the help of saliva. Thus it helps in the easier digestion of food whenever we place it within our mouth. It is also a natural lubricant, thus helping in hassle-free chewing of the food and facilitating the easy movement of the chewed food into the digestive system. Thanks to its ability to moisten the food that makes swallowing much easier for us. 

Prevents Bacteria From Plaque Formation

As a cleansing agent, saliva helps remove food particles that accumulate within your mouth easily. Plaque and tartar are formed whenever bacteria that grow on the food debris accumulate within the tooth enamel. By removing the food particles, saliva keeps those bacteria at bay and thereby ensuring better oral health for you. In addition, the acids developed by the bacteria are neutralized by the ions present within the mouth, which further acts as a buffering system. 

If you have insufficient saliva, it can lead you to many oral health problems such as bad breath, tooth decay, gum diseases, gingivitis, etc. In addition, it can impact your chewing ability and even hinder the smooth swallowing possible due to sufficient saliva in your mouth. Thus saliva is not only a natural lubricant but is also anti-viral, antifungal, and antibacterial.

The best way to ensure that you have proper saliva production is to go for regular dental checkups in Winchester, VA. A dentist in Winchester will perform a detailed oral examination to know whether you have any oral health problems or not. Furthermore, they will discuss the best treatment options for you. Schedule an appointment with your nearest dentist in Winchester if you think you have a bad breath or tooth decay.  

Teeth Infection: Treatment, Signs & Definition

In the long run, a tooth infection can cause plenty of problems. As a result, as soon as you see the symptoms worsening, you must seek treatment. Our dentists at Smiles Of Virginia have covered everything you need to know about dental infection in this blog.

What Is Tooth Infection?

A tooth infection, also known as a dental abscess or dental infection, is identified by the accumulation of fluid inside the gum tissues or teeth. The most common cause of dental infection is the buildup of excess plaque and tartar. This leads to severe bacterial infection.  The harmful germs breed in areas where plaque or tartar develops

Warning Signs Of Tooth Infection

There are several symptoms that show that you are suffering from a tooth infection. Your favorite Winchester dentist has listed these indicators below.

  • Extreme tooth pain that reaches up to your ear
  • Tooth sensitivity
  • Pain while biting or chewing food
  • Increase in body temperature
  • Inflammation in your cheeks and facial tissues
  • Inflammed lymph nodes
  • Salty taste in your oral cavity due to abscess rupture
  • Red facial tissues
  • Swollen gum tissues
  • Stains in your teeth
  • Wobbly teeth
  • Weird taste inside your mouth
  • Persistent bad breath

How To Treat Your Tooth Infection

Treatment for tooth infection relieves pain while also preventing the spread of the infection. Based on the severity of the pain, your dentist in Winchester will begin treating your tooth infection using a dental X-ray. This will enable your dental care professional to determine whether the bacterial illness has spread to other areas of your mouth. These are the following treatment options but you must choose them depending on the intensity and type of abscess in your oral cavity

Draining The Abscess

To remove the pus from the tooth abscess, your Winchester dentist will cut into it. The region will be completely cleaned with a saline solution after that.

Root Canal Procedure

The abscess must be drained, and any diseased pulp must be removed. After that, your dentist in Winchester will fill in and shut the pulp chamber. To repair the affected teeth, you may be advised to get a dental crown.

Teeth Extraction

If the infected tooth is seriously damaged, your dental care professional may need to extract it and then remove the pus.

Ask For Medicines

If your immune system is weakened or if the bacterial infection has spread beyond the damaged tooth, your dental hygienist may prescribe an oral antibiotic to speed up your recovery. Thus you should contact your dentist as soon as you discover the danger signs.

Removal Of Foreign Substance

 A foreign object stuck in your gums can trigger a tooth abscess. In this scenario, your dental care professional would have to remove the foreign object and then clean the affected region with a saline solution.

We hope this blog has provided you with the required information. Get in touch with us at Smiles Of Virginia if you are looking for the best dental care procedures in Winchester, VA.

 

Advantages Of Mouthguards

Mouthguards are types of dental devices that protect your teeth from further grinding while you are playing sports or suffering from sleep apnea. They can also help relieve stress by reducing snoring and treating sleep apnea. Your Winchester dentist may suggest one of these appliances if you have bruxism or other oral issues. These appliances can protect your teeth from decay and harm. These act as a barrier and can considerably improve the health of your teeth. Our dentists at Smiles Of Virginia will discuss why mouthguards are so important in this blog.

What Are Mouthguards?

Your dentist in Winchester will make you a mouthguard. A mold of your teeth will be utilized to make a mouthguard that fits comfortably in your mouth. They fit significantly better than stock or boil-and-bite mouthguards, making them more secure and difficult to remove accidentally while sleeping. These mouthguards are ideal if you grind your teeth, snore, or suffer from sleep apnea. Many dental insurance policies will partially or completely cover the cost. Do you have trouble deciding which mouthguard is best for you? Visit our dental office for the right advise.

Importance Of Mouthguards

The best Winchester dentist has created a list of benefits to assist families in making more informed decisions about dental mouthguards.

Perfect Texture

The thickness of your mouthguard will be determined by the sports you participate in. A boxer’s mouthguard will be significantly thicker than a tennis player’s. Boxing is more likely to cause serious oral injuries than playing tennis. This will ensure that you are properly protected when participating in sports.

Comfortable To Wear

Mouthguards are very easy to use since they don’t come off easily. This makes the healing process a whole lot easier. You can also engage in sports without feeling uncomfortable. What are you waiting for? Get your mouthguards today!

An Affordable Choice

Our mouthguards are reasonably priced. They help to protect you while also allowing you to save money on restorative procedures. They’re also good for your oral health and can help you avoid problems in the future. Hence, by using these devices, you could save money on future dental procedures.

Perfect Fit

Your dentist in Winchester will make a cast of your teeth. After that, it’s sent to a dental lab to be made into a personalized mouthguard for you. This is created just for your mouth, so it will fit and function properly. A one-size-fits-all approach isn’t always the greatest option.

Perfect Protection

When you clash with another player, a mouthguard protects your teeth from increased external pressure. Custom-fit mouthguards provide more protection than pre-manufactured mouthguards since they are tailored just for you.

We hope this blog has helps you to make better choices about mouthguards. Looking for the best mouthguards in Winchester, VA? Book an appointment with us at Smiles Of Virginia if and enjoy our wide range of dental care procedures.

Know Everything Related To Brushing Technique

Brushing your teeth, combing your hair, washing your face — going through the motions of your normal schedule is part of the routine for you. However, are you brushing your teeth properly? Pay close attention to these details and follow our instructions to combat plaque, clean your teeth, and maintain a healthy smile.

Your pearly whites play an important part in everyday life, from breaking down food to toothy greeting smiles. The best dentists in Winchester have come up with the most effective brushing techniques. Give the sections below a diligent read to gather a detailed idea.

The Most Effective Brushing Techniques

Brushing your teeth removes plaque and bacteria that build up on teeth and around the gum line over time. Plaque can cause cavities, tooth decay, and even periodontal disease if it is not eliminated on a regular basis. Brushing your teeth properly can preserve your teeth from decay and illness. Follow the steps mentioned below:

  • Begin with your teeth’ outside surfaces. Please take your time! Brush your upper and lower teeth gently. Slowing down and not missing any areas can be achieved by going tooth by tooth.
  • Make a 45° angle using your brush. To remove any stuck plaque or food debris, brush toward the gum line. Short, tooth-wide strokes are used to gently move the brush back and forth.
  • Brush your teeth from the inside out. It’s easy to forgo cleaning the insides of your teeth since they aren’t as apparent, but these inner surfaces are just as sensitive to plaque. Brush back and forth at a 45° angle to clean the inside surfaces of the teeth.
  • Brush your teeth’ biting surfaces. Brush the tops of your back teeth, where food can easily get lodged, with short back and forth strokes.
  • Brush your teeth and clean your tongue. Brush your tongue to eradicate odor-causing bacteria for better breath.

Common Questions Related To Brushing

We have also provided you with answers to the common questions related to brushing. 

Q. How long should I wash my teeth and how often should I brush them?

A. Brush your teeth twice a day for a total of two minutes. Set a stopwatch or a timer to make sure you are paying adequate attention to your teeth.

Q. What kind of toothpaste should I use?

A. Plaque and food particles should be removed with a soft-bristled brush, according to the American Dental Association (ADA). A toothbrush with a narrow head will be able to reach all areas of the mouth more effectively. For those who have difficulties brushing or have limited manual dexterity, an electric toothbrush is a suitable alternative.

Q. Should I over brush my teeth ever?

A. Since you can overbrush, make sure you use a soft touch when brushing your teeth. Brushing too hard can cause abrasion, gum recession, and discomfort.

Q. What kind of toothbrush should be used?

A. Plaque and food particles should be removed with a soft-bristled brush, according to the American Dental Association (ADA). A toothbrush with a narrow head will be able to reach all areas of the mouth more effectively. For those who have difficulties brushing or have limited manual dexterity, an electric toothbrush is a suitable alternative.

Q. When should I replace my toothbrush?

A. Replace your toothbrush every three to four months or when it begins to show signs of wear, whichever occurs first. To avoid reinfection, change your toothbrush after an illness.

We hope that going through this blog has been really helpful to gather complete knowledge related to brushing. Though, brushing and flossing are sometimes considered not enough to have healthy teeth and gums. Always remember that oral hygiene is key to a perfect smile. In case you are looking for the best routine dental care services in Winchester, VA, book your appointment at Smiles Of Virginia. We are always here to help you out in every possible way. 

 

An Overview On Botox Treatment in Dentistry

Botox is probably something we’ve all heard about at some point in our lives. Many people use it to resolve cosmetic issues and maintain a youthful look. Botox is usually associated with beauty treatments. Did you know that dentists can also administer Botox injections? It’s also one of the safest ways to acquire fillers and injections. Let us find out how safe it is from our dentists at Smiles Of Virginia in this blog.

What Is Botox?

Before jumping into the other sections, one must gain a clear understanding of botox. Botulinum Toxin, also known as Botox, is an injectable drug used to treat several medical and aesthetic conditions. It promotes muscle relaxation and has been shown to help some patients who suffer from issues of migraines, bruxism, jaw clenching, and chronic muscle spasms. The effects of botox can last for up to 6 months.

Why Should You Get Botox From A Dentist?

Are you worried about the safety of the procedure? Your favorite Winchester dentist is well-trained and is highly equipped to administer such injections. Several reasons have been listed below that show why you should trust your dentist in Winchester with botox.

Helps To Prevent Premature Aging

Your Winchester dentist is the best person to consult about wrinkles. They can advise you on when to get your botox injections to prevent the development of wrinkles and to slow down the advancement. This will prevent your facial muscles from sagging and also make you look younger.

Helps To Treat Dental Issues

Other than addressing cosmetic problems, botox has also been known to treat several oral health conditions. Your dentist in Winchester will recommend you to go for Botox if you are suffering from severe cases of migraine, bruxism, and temporomandibular jaw joint disorders. Botox can also treat issues of gummy smiles and release tension around your eyes and your facial muscles.

Well-Trained For The Procedure

Dental care professionals have a good theoretical understanding of the anatomy of your face. They are the perfect people to deal with your individual needs because they have a thorough understanding of your facial muscles. They are also given specialized training so that they can be authorized to administer botox injections.

Highly Skilled

Our dentists are highly trained professionals with significant medical expertise. They have to undergo a rigorous qualification process and acquire a detailed understanding of your facial anatomy. They can also deal with any sudden complications that arise in your facial area. Dental care professionals usually perform several minimally invasive procedures throughout their careers. Hence, they are the best people to advise you and treat any issues related to the facial area.

Can Deal With Any Sort Of Complications

Getting Botox from someone who isn’t certified can be harmful. A simple procedure could turn into a complicated case. Dental care professionals, on the other hand, are well-versed with such procedures and are well-equipped to handle any complications.

Trained To Administer Injections

Injections are given by dental hygienists on a regular basis. This indicates that they are the most qualified to administer your botox injection. They will also ensure that the entire procedure is painless and swift.

We hope this blog has helped you to understand why you should get botox from a dentist. Looking for the best botox-related services in Winchester, VA? Book an appointment with us at Smiles Of Virginia today and enjoy quality dental care.

What is the significance of oral cancer screening?

The technique of discovering cancer before symptoms develop is known as screening. This can aid in the detection of cancer at an early stage. It may be easier to treat aberrant tissue or cancer if it is discovered early. Cancer may have spread by the time symptoms show. Mouth cancer is defined as any malignancy of the mouth. A dentist or dental hygienist will examine several parts of the mouth that you may not have considered. The screening includes your mouth cavity and any associated tissues, including the neck, sinuses, larynx, and pharynx.

What is oral cancer screening?

Before proceeding, here is an overview of oral cancer screening. Oral cancer screening is a procedure in which a dentist or doctor examines your mouth for symptoms of cancer or precancerous diseases. The objective of oral cancer screening is to detect mouth cancer as early as possible when there is a better possibility of a cure. During a normal dental visit, most dentists will examine your mouth to check for oral cancer. Certain dentists may employ additional tests to aid in the identification of areas of abnormal cells in your mouth.

Screening Devices for Oral Cancer

Your oral care professional may need to utilize specialized examination devices during an oral cancer screening. These are some examples:

  • An oral brush biopsy, which extracts cells for testing in a painless manner.
  • A fluorescent light-based improved oral evaluation system tool for identifying questionable oral tissues.
  • An oral lesion screening that employs the use of a mouth rinse to aid in the visual examination of your mouth’s tissues.

Why is oral cancer screening done?

Oral cancer screening seeks to detect mouth cancer or precancerous lesions that may develop into mouth cancer at an early stage when the disease or lesions are easiest to remove and most likely to be treated. People at high risk of oral cancer may benefit more from screening, however, studies have not conclusively shown this. The following factors can increase the risk of developing mouth cancer:

  • Tobacco use in any form is prohibited, including cigarettes, cigars, pipes, chewing tobacco, and snuff.
  • Excessive alcohol consumption
  • Previous diagnosis of oral cancer

The number of persons diagnosed with mouth and throat cancers has been increasing in recent years, but the reason is unknown. Human papillomavirus, a sexually transmitted infection, is linked to an increasing number of these malignancies.

The necessity of oral cancer screenings 

The significance of early detection of oral cancer cannot be emphasized. With just two easy, non-invasive screenings every year, you can increase your chances of early identification and effective treatment. And because they’re already part of your routine checks, they couldn’t be simpler. While professional screenings are important, it’s also a good idea to keep an eye out for the following signs and symptoms between visits:

  • Any open sores or lesions that haven’t healed in two weeks.
  • Changes in your tone of voice.
  • Jaw stiffness or discomfort
  • You get the sensation that something is continuously trapped in your throat.
  • A lump or hump that has recently formed.
  • A throbbing sore throat that won’t go away.
  • Having difficulty chewing or swallowing.

We hope that this blog has provided you with proper knowledge about the importance of oral cancer screening. If you’re searching for the best oral cancer screening service in Winchester, VA, visit Smiles of Virginia. We provide a full range of dental procedures to meet all of your oral needs.