What is Oral Cancer?
Approximately 35,000 Americans are diagnosed each year with this largely preventable type of cancer that affects the mouth and/or part of the throat. Most oral cancers are related to tobacco use, alcohol use, or both. You can help reduce your risk for oral cancer by avoiding all tobacco products and drinking alcohol only in moderation.
Early Detection
Because oral cancer can spread quickly, early detection is important. An oral cancer exam can identify early signs of this disease. The exam is quick and painless, and can be done during your regular dental check-up. Be sure to tell your dentist if you notice persistent changes in your mouth or throat, such as sores, swelling, or numbness, or if you have difficulty eating or swallowing.
If you have yet to have an oral cancer screening  please make an appointment with us at (310)322-1814

A healthy mouth is more than just brushing and flossing. Your eating patterns and food choices also play an important role in preventing tooth decay and gum disease.

Fiber-rich fruits and vegetables: Foods with fiber stimulate saliva flow, which is a natural defense against cavities. Not only does saliva wash away food particles and clean your mouth, about 20 minutes after you eat something, saliva begins to neutralize the acids attacking your teeth. Crisp fruits and vegetables like apples, carrots and celery not only help stimulate saliva flow, but also help clean plaque from teeth and freshen breath.


heese, milk, plain yogurt and other dairy products: The calcium, phosphates and vitamin D in cheese, milk and other dairy products are important minerals for the health of your teeth. Your teeth are made mostly of calcium, and without enough in your diet, you risk developing tooth decay and other problems. An added benefit is that the calcium in these foods mixes with plaque and sticks to teeth, protecting them from acids that cause decay and helping to rebuild tooth enamel on the spot. Worried you won’t get enough calcium because you are allergic to milk or just don’t like the taste? There are many calcium-fortified juices, soy milks and other foods available that can supply as much calcium to your diet as milk does.

Remember, for good dental health, keep these tips in mind when choosing your meals and snacks:

• Drink plenty of water.
• Eat a variety of foods from each of the five major food groups, including: whole grains; fruits; vegetables; lean sources of protein such as lean beef, skinless poultry and fish, dry beans, peas and other legumes; low-fat and fat-free dairy foods.

Most mouth rinses are effective oral antiseptics that freshen the mouth and curb bad breath for up to three hours. Their effectiveness in preventing tooth decay, gingivitis and periodontal disease is limited, however. Here is the recommended regimen for good oral hygiene:

• Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Make sure to brush for at least three minutes; it takes several minutes of brushing to do a thorough job.
• Use floss or an interdental cleaner daily.
• Eat a balanced diet and limit sugary or carbohydrate-loaded snacks.
• Look for the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal on fluoride toothpaste, toothbrushes, floss, interdental cleaners, oral irrigators, mouth rinses and other oral hygiene products. The ADA Seal on a product is your assurance that it has met ADA criteria for safety and effectiveness.
• Use a toothbrush with soft bristles. Toothbrushes with medium or hard bristles actually can wear away tooth structure over time.
• Replace your toothbrush at least every four months, sooner if the bristles become frayed. (Children’s toothbrushes often need replacing more frequently than adults’ because they can wear out sooner.)
• Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and oral exams.