Biofluorescent technology is used to screen for oral cancer
Jan. 15 2022
Getting a diagnosis of cancer can be a scary moment. But when patients are proactive about screening for cancers, they have a better chance of catching it early enough for successful intervention. The same is true with oral cancer. Oral cancer is a condition that can be deadly if it is not diagnosed and treated in a timely manner. This is why it is vital that patients get routine screenings performed when they visit the dentist. Dr. Dean Glasser and his team of professionals at Implant and General Dentistry or Long Island in Melville, NY provide routine screenings as part of the regular dental cleanings and examinations performed every six months for the patients of his office.
Why are oral cancer screenings important?
Oral cancer is a condition that can be cured if patients have it diagnosed and treated in the earliest stages. This is why it is vital that patients have routine evaluations at Implant and General Dentistry of Long Island with Dr. Dean Glasser. He uses the latest technologies in his practice to ensure patients have access to the diagnostics and treatments they deserve.
What happens during an oral cancer screening?
Dr. Dean Glasser uses a specialized biofluorescent device that is used to spot unusual cells in the mouth. This includes the soft tissues, the throat, the gums, and even the tongue. Within just a few minutes, he can evaluate the mouth to look for any indications that oral cancer might be present. If there is an area of concern that is spotted with the biofluorescent device, a biopsy (removal of a sample of the tissues) is done and sent to a laboratory for further evaluation.
How do I schedule my oral cancer screening?
Oral cancer screenings are performed during routine cleanings and evaluations. We encourage patients to be proactive and if they spot any new lesions or growths in the smile to call the dental office for a separate evaluation. Implant and General Dentistry of Long Island is located at 458 Old Country Road in Melville, NY and can be reached by calling for an appointment at (631) 423-6767.
Dr. Dean Glasser is a respected Cosmetic and General Dentist, serving Melville, NY and the greater Long Island area. A Professor at Columbia University Dental School, Dr. Glasser is recognized as a Diplomate of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists and as a Fellow of the following organizations: the International Congress of Oral Implantologists, the Academy of General Dentistry, the American Association of Hospital Dentistry and the Misch Implant Institute.
What to Know About Nicotine and Your Smile
Aug. 15 2019
Smoking is one of the hardest addictions to quit; especially because it can be such a social thing. In addition to causing lung cancer and heart disease, however, nicotine is notorious for causing a host of other issues including oral health problems. From gingivitis to cavities, let’s take a closer look at a few issues that nicotine can cause.
Gingivitis
Gingivitis or gum diseases is one of the most common oral conditions that we see patients for. Typically, patients get gum disease when they don’t take good care of their teeth and brush along the gumline. However, patients who use nicotine are way more susceptible to getting it. Nicotine causes bio-film (a thick, sticky substance) to form along the gumline which can cause bacteria to build up and results in gum disease.
Oral Cancer
The most severe thing that nicotine can cause (orally) is oral cancer. There are several types of oral cancer, including cancer of the cheek, tongue, and throat. Although it can be easily treated if it’s caught early on, it’s not something that we want any of our patients to have to endure.
Cavities
Another thing that patients who use nicotine are prone to getting is cavities. Cavities are the most common oral issue that we see patients for. Similar to how nicotine causes gingivitis, that same biofilm can result in cavities. Plus, nicotine causes dry mouth, which can also lead to cavities.
Quitting smoking can literally save your life and your oral health. To help prevent your chances of oral health issues, schedule your next cleaning with us at our Melville office and call us at (631) 423-6767.
Dr. Dean Glasser is a respected Cosmetic and General Dentist, serving Melville, NY and the greater Long Island area. A Professor at Columbia University Dental School, Dr. Glasser is recognized as a Diplomate of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists and as a Fellow of the following organizations: the International Congress of Oral Implantologists, the Academy of General Dentistry, the American Association of Hospital Dentistry and the Misch Implant Institute.
Symptoms of Oral Cancer
Dec. 15 2018
If you are a cigarette smoker or tobacco user you know that you are at a higher risk of developing lung cancer, throat cancer, and heart disease. But did you know that you are also at a higher risk of developing oral cancer as well? Whether you smoke or not during one of your regular dental examinations, Dr. Glasser will check for any signs of oral cancer. But what are the signs and symptoms that you as a patient should be on the lookout for? Let’s take a closer look.
White Patches
Have you ever had strep throat? If so then you may have noticed white patches on the back of your throat. Similarly, one sign of oral cancer to look out for are white patches on the inside of your cheeks or on the roof of your mouth. If you notice any of these patches and they aren’t going away, then make sure to contact Dr. Glasser
Persistent Pain
The tricky thing about persistent mouth pain is that it could be attributed to a variety of things including an oral infection, a cavity, or yes, even oral cancer. If you are experiencing any sort of persistent oral pain, schedule an appointment with Dr. Glasser so that he can get down to the root cause of it.
Sore Throat
Having a sore throat that’s accompanied by a cold and then goes away after a week is something that’s normal during this time of year. But having a persistent sore throat that you just can’t get rid of may be a sign of oral or throat cancer.
If at any point you are worried that you may have signs of oral cancer, don’t hesitate to give Dr. Glasser a call. To learn more about oral cancer screenings or to schedule your next examination, contact our Melville office at (631) 423-6767.
Dr. Dean Glasser is a respected Cosmetic and General Dentist, serving Melville, NY and the greater Long Island area. A Professor at Columbia University Dental School, Dr. Glasser is recognized as a Diplomate of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists and as a Fellow of the following organizations: the International Congress of Oral Implantologists, the Academy of General Dentistry, the American Association of Hospital Dentistry and the Misch Implant Institute.
Patient Reviews
My family and I have been using Dr. Glasser for 30 years. He is the best! He is a professional through and through as well a great guy. He's honest, ethical & always has his patients best interest at heart. He did an excellent job on my implants and caps I could not have gotten a better more beautiful new set of teeth any where else.
- Richard G.