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Timely detection can significantly influence the outcome of cancer treatment, and oral cancer is no exception. Routine screenings serve as your frontline defense against oral cancer, and at Fischer Family Dentistry of Norton Shores, our dentist is extensively trained in conducting comprehensive oral cancer screenings.

During your screening session, we meticulously examine your lips, tongue, gums, mouth, and throat for any anomalies that could indicate or evolve into cancerous lesions. We also take careful note of any symptoms you may be experiencing. Should you manifest any oral cancer symptoms persisting for over two weeks sans improvement, promptly schedule an appointment and apprise your dentist. Warning signs of oral cancer encompass:

• Ear pain
• Non-healing mouth sores
• White or red patches within the mouth
• Drastic weight loss
• Swellings or lumps in or around the oral cavity
• Persistent sore throat devoid of accompanying sinus symptoms
• Sensation of an obstruction in the throat
• Difficulty or pain while swallowing, speaking, or moving the jaw or tongue

With one American succumbing to oral cancer every hour, vigilance is paramount. While oral cancer can afflict anyone, certain factors elevate your susceptibility. Common risk factors encompass genetic predisposition, prolonged sun exposure, poor dietary habits, smoking, chewing tobacco, and excessive alcohol consumption. Moreover, oral cancer exhibits a higher prevalence among men than women.

Regardless of causative factors, treatment success hinges on factors such as cancer size, type, and stage. Early detection substantially bolsters your prospects of successful recovery, with oral cancers detected in their incipient stages boasting an impressive 80–90% survival rate. Lesions identified in early or precancerous phases can often be excised via less invasive interventions. Conversely, advanced-stage cancers tend to be more extensive and necessitate more complex treatment modalities, often entailing metastasis beyond the oral cavity.

For comprehensive insights into oral cancer and proactive oral cancer screening, do not hesitate to reach out to our office. Schedule a consultation or a comprehensive dental examination today to safeguard your oral health and overall well-being. At Fischer Family Dentistry of Norton Shores, we are committed to delivering personalized care tailored to your unique needs.

A staggering percentage of the United States populace grapples with moderate to severe periodontal disease, a spectrum ranging from mild inflammation (gingivitis) to the more severe periodontitis, which poses risks of soft tissue damage, bone deterioration, and even tooth loss. At Fischer Family Dentistry of Norton Shores, our seasoned dentist is adept at addressing all stages of periodontal disease in both new and established patients.

The Leading Culprit: Poor Oral Hygiene A primary culprit behind gum disease often lies in inadequate oral hygiene practices. Daily brushing and flossing, complemented by routine professional exams and cleanings, constitute the bedrock of optimal oral health maintenance. When these practices are neglected, plaque accumulates on the teeth and beneath the gum line. Left unattended, plaque hardens into tartar, a substance only removable by dental professionals during a thorough dental cleaning session.

Early Intervention Is Key In the absence of prompt treatment during the initial stages, gum disease can rapidly progress. Tartar and bacteria continue to proliferate, leading to inflammation, redness, swelling, and bleeding of the gums. At this juncture, professional periodontal intervention becomes imperative to halt further advancement.

Unveiling Periodontitis: The Advanced Stage Periodontitis represents the zenith of periodontal disease progression. Gums recede from the teeth, fostering the formation of pockets between the tooth, root, and gum tissue. These pockets pose formidable cleaning challenges and necessitate professional intervention. Failure to promptly address periodontitis may result in irreversible damage to bone, gums, and soft tissues, with tooth loss looming as a potential consequence, making periodontal disease one of the leading causes of adult tooth loss.

Navigating Risk Factors Numerous risk factors contribute to the onset and progression of periodontal disease, encompassing poor oral hygiene, diabetes, autoimmune disorders, smoking, genetic predisposition, and hormonal fluctuations in females. Certain medications may even induce gum tissue overgrowth, complicating oral hygiene efforts.

Comprehensive Periodontal Care at your fingertips. Our dentist possesses the acumen and expertise to diagnose and treat every stage of periodontal disease. Should you experience symptoms such as halitosis, bleeding or tender gums, tooth sensitivity, or loose teeth, do not hesitate to reach out to our office to schedule a comprehensive periodontal evaluation. At Fischer Family Dentistry of Norton Shores, we deliver unparalleled periodontal care tailored to the unique needs of both new and established patients.

You have heard the recommendation from your dental hygienist or dentist over and over again: “You need to start flossing. Flossing daily is important.” Although it may sound like a broken record at times, flossing truly is instrumental to both your oral and overall dental health. It is important to understand the benefits of flossing daily to keep your smile shining bright. 

Flossing not only protects your gum tissue, but also the surrounding bone support. When you floss, you clean the plaque (dental bacteria) in between your teeth. Simply brushing your teeth does not allow you to reach the areas in between where your teeth touch together. The bacteria can build up and eventually harden into tartar. A combination of bacteria in your mouth and tartar under the gumline can lead to periodontal disease and eventually tooth loss. 

Periodontal disease not only affects your oral health, but your systemic health as well. Long term, unresolved inflammation in your body can lead to many issues. The bacteria found in the mouth that cause periodontal disease have also been shown to circulate throughout the bloodstream. It has been proven that there is a correlation between these bacteria and heart disease, stroke, increased blood sugar levels/diabetes, and Alzheimer’s, among many other diseases. 

A consistent routine of flossing, when paired with brushing and professional cleanings, can save you money in the long run. Preventative care can reduce more severe problems down the road. Flossing can help decrease the amount of decay you develop in between your teeth, therefore decreasing the amount of dental work that needs to be done. It is a great way to stop the problems before they even begin. 

Although it may sound repetitive, you truly do want to heed the advice of a dental professional when it comes to flossing. The old saying “only floss the teeth that you want to keep” holds true. Contact our office for a full dental examination and a professional cleaning, including an evaluation of your oral hygiene habits and how they can be improved. 

If it has been more than 6 months since your last dental visit, it may not be possible to regain optimal oral health care without the assistance of professional care. While creating your oral health plan, make sure to start by scheduling an examination and professional thorough cleaning with our team. Once you’ve received professional care, it’s imperative to adopt an at-home care plan to maintain your oral health between appointments.  

How often should you receive professional care?  

Your professional oral health care plan will vary based on your individual needs. For patients with mild to severe periodontal disease, a program involving 4 visits per year may be necessary to keep the disease from progressing. For others with a smile less susceptible to periodontal disease and tooth decay, 2 visits per year may suffice. Regardless of your individual needs, once set, do your best to keep to your regular schedule. This will prevent harmful bacteria from causing damage to your beautiful smile and affecting your overall health.  

Home Care 

Many don’t realize the regular dental appointments alone do not ensure optimal oral health. In fact, according to the research conducted by the American Dental Association, brushing should occur twice per day for 2 full minutes with a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Interdental cleaning should occur daily and can be done with floss or alternative methods, such as with the use of a Waterpik.  

Decay can occur in a few months or less of oral hygiene neglect. Decay can also occur due to an acidic oral environment, underlying health conditions or as a result of a poor dietary habit.  

Oral Health and Overall Health 

Your oral health is directly related to your overall health. The bacteria and infection found in your mouth can travel through your bloodstream to important organs. It’s imperative to care for your smile, just as you would your heart, lungs or brain.  

Whether it has been only a few months or several years since you’ve last received professional oral health care, we welcome you at our practice. You’ll receive compassionate care, free of judgement. It’s our goal to help you achieve a smile that you’re happy to display.

Despite popular belief, there is no official dental specialty for cosmetic dentistry. There are, however, countless courses, training programs and advanced training which can allow a general dentist to master the art of dentistry. When considering cosmetic dentistry, start with a consultation.  

What to Expect During Your Cosmetic Consultation 

Just as you wouldn’t paint a house that has yet to be built, you wouldn’t want to address the aesthetics of your smile, prior to ensuring the foundation is healthy and functional. For this reason, you may learn that you have a need for restorative or orthodontic care before receiving the cosmetic plan. This can be disappointing for some patients, however, most agree that having a strong and healthy smile is even more important than its appearance.  

During your cosmetic consultation, you’ll have the opportunity to explain to our team how you’d like your smile to appear. With modern technology and procedures, our team can address and solve a variety of concerns, including:  

• Diastema (gaps between teeth) 
• Whitening a dull smile 
• Repairing chipped or cracked teeth 
• Building up worn teeth 
• Reshaping 
• Crown lengthening (to correct a “gummy” smile)  
• Misaligned or crooked teeth 

The services recommended during your consultation may include one or more of the following:  

• Porcelain veneers 
• Teeth whitening 
• Inlays and onlays 
• Dental Implants 
• Dentures 
• Tooth-colored fillings 
• Orthodontics 

During your appointment, you’ll not only express what you envision for your smile, but our team will provide you with a detailed plan for how to achieve your goals. From there, you’ll be able to plan the appointments, financing and more. Often a few small changes can drastically improve the appearance of a smile. It’s very possible that in 1-2 short visits, you can be smiling with confidence.  

If you’ve considered cosmetic dentistry, but aren’t sure where to start, contact us. Our team of professionals will provide you with an individual plan.

Heart disease is a major health concern in the United States, and there are many risk factors that can contribute to its development. One risk factor that is often overlooked is gum disease. In this blog, we will explore the relationship between heart health and gum disease, and what steps can be taken to maintain good oral health and reduce the risk of heart disease.

1. The Link Between Gum Disease and Heart Disease

Research has shown that there is a link between gum disease and heart disease. The bacteria that cause gum disease can enter the bloodstream and travel to other parts of the body, including the heart. Once there, the bacteria can cause inflammation, which can contribute to the development of heart disease.

2. Gum Disease and Arterial Plaque Buildup

Gum disease can also contribute to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, a condition known as atherosclerosis. Plaque buildup in the arteries can lead to restricted blood flow, which can cause a heart attack or stroke. Additionally, the inflammation caused by gum disease can contribute to the formation of blood clots, which can also lead to a heart attack or stroke.

3. Prevention of Gum Disease

Preventing gum disease is an important step in reducing the risk of heart disease. Good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing twice a day and flossing daily, can help remove plaque and bacteria from the teeth and gums. Regular dental checkups and cleanings can also help identify and treat gum disease in its early stages.

4. Treatment of Gum Disease

If gum disease is already present, it is important to seek treatment as soon as possible. Treatment for gum disease may include deep cleaning procedures, such as scaling and root planing, or even surgery in severe cases. Antibiotics may also be prescribed to help eliminate bacteria and reduce inflammation.

5. Other Steps to Maintain Heart Health

Maintaining good oral health is just one step in reducing the risk of heart disease. Other steps that can be taken include maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, managing stress, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.

In conclusion, gum disease and heart disease are linked, and taking care of your oral health is an important step in maintaining overall heart health. By practicing good oral hygiene habits, seeking treatment for gum disease if necessary, and taking other steps to maintain heart health, such as a healthy diet and regular exercise, you can reduce your risk of heart disease and improve your overall health and well-being. For more information, please contact our dental office to schedule an appointment.

Good oral hygiene habits are essential to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. What you might not know is that research has found the health of your mouth actually mirrors the overall condition of your body. According to the Academy of General Dentistry, there is a direct

relationship between gum disease and many serious health conditions, including heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. The good news is, research also shows that good oral health may actually help prevent certain diseases from occurring.

Understanding the mouth/body connection 

Poor oral habits can cause bacteria to build up on your teeth, making your gums more prone to disease and infection. When that happens, your immune system goes to work attacking the infection, leading to inflammation and gum disease, also known as periodontitis. Left untreated, periodontitis and chronic inflammation can wreak havoc on the rest of your body, leading to a host of health problems. Thankfully, this “worst-case-scenario” is easily preventable. Here’s what you can do to elevate your oral hygiene habits and keep unwanted health concerns at bay:

• Brush twice a day for at least two minutes using a soft-bristled brush. Be sure to choose a toothbrush that is the right size for your mouth so you can reach back teeth easily. If you have any questions about which toothbrush we recommend for you, you can ask our office during your appointment.
• Remember to replace your toothbrush every three or four months.
• Choose an American Dental Association-approved fluoride toothpaste to keep teeth free from decay.
• Floss daily to remove tooth decay-causing bacteria that tend to linger between teeth. Regular flossing also helps remove plaque under the gumline and minimize your risk of contracting gum disease.
• Eat a healthy diet that limits sugary beverages and snacks.
• Avoid cigarettes and other tobacco products, which are known to contribute to gum disease and oral cancer.

In addition to maintaining good daily oral health habits, seeing your dentist regularly is one of the best ways to keep your mouth – and your body – healthy. These exams allow our team to monitor any changes to your teeth and gums and make recommendations that will help you avoid future health problems. Call our office today to schedule an exam.