ORAL CANCER SCREENING

Oral cancer is an abnormal group of cells in the mouth, including the gums, jawbone, lips, tongue, throat, and salivary glands. Each dental examination at LifeTime Smiles of OC will include a screening for oral cancer to check for any symptoms, including inflammation, sores, lesions, and lumps. Dr. Abraham will also feel your neck and jaw for abnormal growths. Should any areas of concern be discovered, a biopsy can be done or you may need care from a specialist.

BEST CANDIDATES FOR DENTAL EXAM

Santa Ana, CA residents of every age should receive a dental exam every year. Some of the most common oral conditions, such as periodontal disease (the top reason for tooth loss), do not have signs you can see. If concerns are noticed early, you are more likely to have additional treatment options.

The ADA (American Dental Association) suggests that children visit a dentist before they turn one year old. Dr. Abraham can talk about common problems, including using pacifiers, teething, and baby bottle tooth decay. Our team at LifeTime Smiles of OC can teach you ways to clean and care for your baby’s oral health so they develop good habits early in life. Dental examinations are also crucial for older children as their teeth, gums, and jaw develop.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Your appointment will begin with an initial assessment of your teeth, gums, tongue, throat, roof of your mouth, inside your cheeks, and other checkpoints. This includes checking for symptoms of oral cancer in your mouth. Dr. Abraham or a member of his team may take digital x-rays and check for abnormal gum tissue. Dr. Abraham will evaluate your neck, head, and jaw, including the bite and temporomandibular joints (TMJ). He will then discuss any concerns discovered and your treatment options. Dr. Abraham will go over any other conditions you may have, prescriptions you are taking, and if they might affect your dental health by causing tooth decay or dry mouth. Lastly, he will check any restorations you have, such as bridges and dentures, to assess the wear and fit.

FOLLOW-UP

When to schedule your next appointment will be based on the results of your exam. If Dr. Abraham doesn’t find any problems, then you can follow a home oral care routine with flossing and brushing every day, plus yearly dental examinations and twice yearly professional cleanings at LifeTime Smiles of OC. If Dr. Abraham does find a concern that needs to be treated, procedures can be reviewed and planned.

INSURANCE COVERAGE

Since a dental exam is so important to your dental health, it’s usually covered by insurance. We can talk to your insurance company to understand your coverage and any personal expenses. If you don’t have insurance, LifeTime Smiles of OC takes several payments, including medical financing. Dr. Abraham works with you to help you be able to afford good dental health.

ANNUAL DENTAL EXAMS

True oral health means you can’t go to the dentist only when something is wrong. You have to be proactive with preventive care. This may save the health of your teeth and gums, plus a lot of time and money. We suggest visiting Dr. Kareem Abraham at LifeTime Smiles of OC annually for a dental exam. This can help you to minimize problems by catching them in the early stages. We work hard to make dental examinations a pleasant experience for you so you’ll enjoy coming back. Contact our team in Santa Ana, CA to schedule your exam.