Here are several medical conditions that during your regular dental exam, Dr.Shlafer may see signs of a health problem.
- Oral Cancer: Dr.Shlafer can screen for precancerous changes in the oral tissues. This type of early detection of oral cancer(using ViziLite Plus) can result in successful treatment. Even better, oral cancer can be prevented if found and treated in the precancerous stages. About 25% of people diagnosed with oral cancer (the 6th most common cancer in the U.S.) have none of the traditional risk factors associated with the disease, such as the use of tobacco products.
- Pregnancy Complications: Infants born prematurely in the U.S. account for 6%-9% of all births, but 70% of all prenatal deaths. The National Institute of Health reports that as many as 18% of the 250,00 premature low-weight infants born in this country each year may be the result of inflammatory gum disease. Studies show that pregnant women with severe gum disease have 7 times the risk of delivering a low-birthweight baby.
- Heart Disease: Studies have shown that people with severe periodontal disease, are more likely to develop cardiovascular disease than those without gum infection. A study released in February of 2005 shows that older adults who have higher proportions of periodontal disease causing bacteria in their mouths also tend to have thicker carotid arteries, a stronge predictor of stroke and heart attack.
- Diabetes: Many people with diabetes may not know they have it. Dr.Shlafer can play an important role in discovering oral symptoms and help with the management of it. Diabetics tend to get periodontal disease at a rate of 3-4 times higher than people without diabetes. Other oral problems diabetes can cause is dry mouth, burning of mouth or tongue, a fungal infection, or a distinct breath odor.
It makes sense to safeguard your general health through proper oral health care. Call us today with any health concerns you may have.
