Oral Cancer Screenings in Yorktown Heights | Dr. Lerner

Focusing On Your Whole Body Health

Traducir al español: English | Spanish

The prevalence of oral cancer in America is increasing, with an estimated 49,750 people being diagnosed in 2017 alone. Of those newly diagnosed individuals, it is projected that only 57% will live 5 years beyond receiving the news. Oral cancer will cause almost 10,000 deaths annually, equating to nearly 1 person per hour.

These statistics are a lot to digest and can cause quite a bit of fear. This fear might be elevated when we look at the reason oral cancer death rates are high—not because it’s more difficult to remove, but because it’s usually discovered in late stage. This makes sense knowing that only 14-18% of dentists in the United States screen for oral cancer. That’s right, 14-18%.

However, Dr. Lerner of The Center for Holistic Dentistry wants to provide Yorktown Heights residents with relief by educating you on what to look for and screening you for oral cancer regularly. Read on to learn more and feel free to give us a call with questions and concerns.

Open Up

A lot of us feel we’re familiar with the appearance of our mouths. We conduct diligent oral hygiene routines (we certainly hope this is true!) and take note of any discomfort, pain, and/or abnormal coloring of our tongue, teeth, and gums. But what about your cheeks, hard and soft palates, uvula, tonsils, and underneath your tongue? Do you regularly examine your inner lips, lift the top and lower the bottom in order to see more of your gums?

If you don’t, there is no need to feel guilty or panicked but it’s probably a good idea to start paying closer attention to what’s going on in your mouth. Now you may be asking, “But what am I supposed to be on the lookout for?”

Is This Normal?

First, no two mouths will look identical, as evidenced by how people can be identified post-mortem with dental records. While this fact may seem morbid, it illustrates how each smile is unique, which is one of the reasons Dr. Lerner loves being a dentist.

That being said, there are some telltale signs and symptoms of oral cancer that you should make Dr. Lerner or your primary care provider aware of if you notice them:

  • A sore (or several) located on your lip, tongue, the roof of your mouth, or gums that does not heal within two weeks.
  • Discolored (white, red, black) patches anywhere in your mouth.
  • Swelling, lumps, bumps, or new growths in your mouth, especially if they’re located on one side and not the other.
  • Pain or difficulty in
  • Stiffness or pain when moving the jaw or tongue.
  • Persistent ear and/or head pain and aches.
  • Unexplained bleeding or numbness in your mouth.
  • A sore throat or feeling of a lump in your throat that does not heal.
  • Changes in the fit of your dentures or other dental appliances.

Is Oral Cancer Preventable?

There are factors that increase your risk of oral cancer, but it is important to note that 25% of oral cancer cases are diagnosed in people whose risk factors are low. It’s even more crucial to be self-examining frequently and regularly screened for oral cancer by your Yorktown Heights dentist if any of the following apply to you:

  • Tobacco use
  • Frequent alcohol consumption
  • HPV (human papillomavirus)
  • Family history of cancer
  • Excessive exposure to the sun (especially in adolescence)

Advanced Technology to the Rescue

Dr. Lerner uses a tool called the VelScope® to perform oral cancer screenings. The VelScope is a hand piece that emits a safe blue light, the best for observing what is called tissue fluorescence. The VelScope enables us to see cellular, structural, and/or metabolic changes that could indicate the need for testing. We may apply light pressure while examining with the light, a technique called blanching, to observe how questionable findings respond.

If anything seems suspicious, Dr. Lerner will remove some cells for biopsy. If the results are negative, we can breathe a sigh of relief with you. If they happen to be malignant, it’s best that we find out early to double your chance of recovery.

If you’re concerned about oral cancer, don’t delay scheduling your visit, contact us today for peace of mind!

The content of this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.


Sources

http://oralcancerfoundation.org/facts/

https://www.cancer.org/cancer/oral-cavity-and-oropharyngeal-cancer/about/key-statistics.html

https://healdove.com/oral-health/how-to-check-yourself-for-oral-cancer

Your Top-Rated & New Favorite Dentist In Yorktown Heights, NY

"I can’t thank Dr. Lerner and his staff enough, notably his assistant Nicole for expertly handling my mercury filling removals.I had it done in 2 phases and they took very good care of me on both occasions. The whole office is very pleasant, so professional and I look forward to my visits. On this most recent cleaning appointment, Linda did my cleaning. She was gentle and thorough. Highly recommend."

- Vanessa R.

"Excellent experience during my initial consultation. The most complete examination I have ever had by a dentist, including full body muscle testing. This testing uncovered major alignment issues with my jaw which has been causing a lifetime of misalignment throughout the rest of my body. Dr. Lerner and his staff are outside the box thinkers and I am very happy I have found them."

- Greg R.

"Very professional and compassionate. Love the use of Nucalm, eye mask, calming music, and making removing my mercury fillings a pleasant experience. Well as pleasant as can be. Thank you!!!"

- Jodi B.

"Been seeing Dr Lerner since I was about 11 years old, I’m now 31! I continue to see Jane for cleanings and just did the zoom whitening treatment with them in preparation of my wedding- highly recommend!"

- Chloe L.

*The reviews listed are from actual patients of The Center For Holistic Dentistry. Individual results may vary. Reviews are not claimed to represent results for everyone.

Holistic Veterinarian Dr. Marty Goldstien, Oprah’s vet of choice, shares how it was Dr. Lerner’s expertise and shared holistic approach that made him trust his treatment.

Dana talks about her concerns about injections and pain and how Dr. Lerner’s holistic approach was reassuring to her.

What To Expect On Your First Visit

Our mission is to encourage full-body wellness through oral health while allowing you to feel heard and understand all your options. During your new patient exam, Dr. Lerner will spend time reviewing your health history, concerns, and goals. Your comprehensive exam will address items you may not have considered such as airway screening and dental materials sensitivity testing. We look forward to meeting you!

Comprehensive Review Of Your Health History & Concerns

Evaluation Of Teeth, Bite, Gums & Airway Passage

Low Radiation Digital X-Rays

Discover Your Options & Receive A Custom Treatment Plan