I know that many people don’t like to hear the word “cancer”. Prevention is the key and knowing what to look for. Do you know the six most common signs of oral cancer? Would you like to be informed of common signs linked to oral cancer?

According to an article at cancer.about.com, “Most Common Signs of Oral Cancer “

“Oral cancer is a type of head and neck cancer that affects the mouth. It can form in the lining of the cheeks, gums, roof of the mouth, tongue, and lips. Oral cancer symptoms can often be the signs of other less serious illnesses, so it is important to consult your doctor or dentist if you are experiencing any of these changes in your oral health.

During your annual dental check-up, your dentist will also screen for oral cancer. Those who use tobacco products may receive a more in-depth screening based on their risk.

1. White and Red Patches in the Mouth or Lips:

A white or red patch (or combination of the two) inside the mouth or the lips are the most commonly experienced symptom of oral cancer. In the early stages, these white and red patches are warnings of abnormal cells, a pre-malignant condition. If left untreated, they can become cancerous.

2. A Sore or Blister in Your Mouth:

A sore or blister in the mouth or on the lip that won’t heal is a symptom of oral cancer. Sores that last longer than 2 weeks warrant a trip to the doctor.

3. Difficulty Swallowing:

This symptom can include difficulty chewing, moving the jaw, speaking, or moving the tongue. This is a non-specific symptom of oral cancer and can be caused by many other conditions.

4. Earaches:

Frequent or persistent earaches need to be evaluated by a physician. An earache is usually indicative of an infection. However, in some cases, it can be related to oral cancer.

5. Change in the Way Teeth Fit Together:

This can include dentures not fitting correctly. Oral cancer can also cause loose teeth.

6. Bleeding from the Mouth:

Report any oral bleeding to your dentist and doctor. Bleeding from the mouth can be caused by many things, but it is still a symptom of oral cancer and needs to be checked out.”

If you have any concerns about the above symptoms please consult your dentist immediately. Dr. McElhinney of Reno Laser Dentistry has more than 30 years of experience. You’re in great hands under his care! Click here to contact our office for more information.

How important are dental visits to you? When was your last dental check-up? How would you like more reasons to why it’s so important to have regular dental check-up?

According to an article at dentistry.about.com, “The Importance of Dental Visits”

“Have you ever heard the saying that “your eyes are the window to your soul”? Well, your mouth is a window to your health. More people understand the importance of regular visits to their dentist for the health of their teeth. But, what about your overall health? Can your dentist really help diagnose non-dental diseases? Yes, as a matter of fact, they can! Some of the non-dental related diseases that your dentist can help detect include: sexually transmitted diseases (STD), diabetes, heart disease, and even several types of cancerous diseases. When your dentist performs an oral exam, he or she is looking in your mouth for signs of different diseases such as inflammation, bleeding, dry mouth or sores, and suspicious areas around the gum line.

Many dentists also routinely take their patient’s blood pressure prior to any procedure, (especially if local anesthesia is administered). There are many instances where patients have high blood pressure and not even know it. During a routine oral exam, your dentist may also check areas on your head and neck for suspicious lesions.

Just a few more reasons why seeing your dentist on a regular basis is vital to your teeth and your overall health. So, when was your last dental check-up?”

Need a dental exam, live in the Reno area? Dr. McElhinney of Reno Laser Dentistry is the best in town. Click here for more information on Dr. McElhinney’s dental practice and appointment availability.

It’s always nice to recap on why laser dentistry is the best. For those of you that haven’t had the opportunity to experience all the benefits of laser dentistry, you’re in for a real treat. Due to the advances in the dental industry laser dentistry has made it much easier for patients that may have “dental anxiety”.

According to an article at articlesrx.com, “list the benefits of laser dentistry”

“Laser dentistry is an easy decision whenever it is available. Dental care providers that offer it know it offers patients improved service. No one likes going to the dentist, but if you could get this type of procedure, you may be more willing to climb into that big chair. You may even find that any treatment available using high powered lasers really makes dental work easy to manage. The more you know about these procedures, the better.

The Advantages

The use of laser dentistry is growing. In these procedures, dentists use very high-powered lasers that have excellent accuracy. The goal is to handle the procedure with more precision and in doing so most people will see significant benefits.The following are some of the advantages you may experience by having these procedures.

• Most people say that this type of procedure reduces pain. Patients note there is a lot less pain and sometimes no pain at all. This treatment does not cause any vibrations, which means your nerves are not relying pain messages to the brain.

• The accuracy that comes from lasers is one of the main reasons dentists turn to these products. With these procedures, the result is usually better. This means identifying and treating conditions like cavities is more precise. That makes the job easier to manage for both the dentist and the patient.

• You will have a shorter recovery time after the procedure. In most cases, laser dentistry can reduce the recovery time considerably. This is because of the increased precision and the reduced pain. It also is a more effective procedure in most cases, which means the problem is gone faster.

• Often, these devices are easier to manage by the dentist. This makes the entire dental procedure more manageable for most patients. You will not have to deal with uncomfortable positions or tools in your mouth. Overall, most people say the lack of stitches, anesthesia or other treatments makes the procedure a good one.

• In some situations, this type of dental care is also more affordable. Because you will need fewer treatments and because of the improved accuracy, these procedures can actually reduce the costs associated with dental care. The costs of having this type of procedure are being reduced as more dental care providers offer the service, too.

Laser dentistry can be a good idea for many types of treatments. If your dentist does not offer this type of treatment, you may want to look for a provider that does. It can make all of the difference in the way you feel after your appointment. It may not be necessary to put off those dental appointments anymore. Ask your provider if he or she offers these types of treatments.”

Click here to view the article:

If you’re looking for a dentist to brighten up your smile and improve the quality of your oral health, contact Dr. McElhinney located in Reno to set-up an appointment.

An Alternative to the drill, Waterlase! Due to advances in dental science we have an extraordinary tool, making treatment more comfortable all the time. Most treatments can be done without an injection or anesthetic. One of the best benefits for patients is no trauma. A great number of dental problems can be treated with the Waterlase including: denture sores, canker sores, cold sores, mouth ulcers, desensitizing teeth sensitive to cold and air, removing excess or infected gum tissue, releasing tongue-ties, removing growths in the mouth and lips, performing root canal fillings, and removing excess bone where necessary. Post-treatment healing is faster and more comfortable when the Waterlase is used compared to the drill. One of the best benefits is the painless dentistry.

Just think about the fear many patients have when you say the word “drill” No more nightmares! Adults and most children can come in the dental office without all the fear, at Dr. McElhinney dental practice located in Reno, you can expect the best experience. Dr. McElhinney and dental staff are well informed with all the benefits and will be glad to assist you in any questions that you may have.