Khanna Dentistry Blog

A Virus That Causes Oral Cancer?

Did you know that every hour, someone dies from oral cancer? Sadly, 100 people are diagnosed with this deadly form of cancer every day.

It is no surprise that tobacco and alcohol are risk factors for oral cancer. However, new research has shown that the human papillomavirus 16 (HPV 16) can lead to oral cancer as well. This is the same virus that can cause many forms of cervical cancer. HPV 16 can affect individuals of any age – even girls as young as 15. Because of this, there has been an increase in the number of young people (under 40) with oral cancers.

Oral cancer screenings are an important part of the regular dental exam. These screenings should be performed at least twice a year by your dentist and hygienist. Please inform your dental staff if you have any oral cancer risk factors including tobacco or alcohol use, family history, or exposure to HPV 16.

The Oral Cancer Foundation is promoting awareness and raising research money by hosting the first ever Northern IllinoisCancer Walk on June 10^th, 2012. To participate or donate, please visit http://oralcancerfoundation.org/events/.

Put yourself on the list and make 2012 a year for yourself. It seems everyone gets so busy working, raising kids, taking care of our homes that we forget to take time for ourselves.
It is a known fact that when you meet people for the first time, there are 2 things that are noticed. The eyes and the smile, don’t you want that first impression of your smile to be the best possible?
At Khanna Dentistry we take pride in putting you first. People think just because their teeth don’t hurt, there is not a problem and that is simply not true. You never want to wait until something does hurt. Neglecting your dental health or not treating your problem may cost you more financially and emotionally, not to mention it can affect your overall health.
We invite you to come and take a tour of our office, meet our team and become a part of our dental family. Please visit us at www.genevasmiles.com to learn more about our practice and our team. Looking forward to seeing you all make 2012 the year that you achieved optimal dental health and put yourself on the list.

Over the last few weeks many patients and their families have been fighting colds and flus. We all know that viruses and bacteria can cause coughing, sneezing, runny noses, tummy problems and much more. Did you know that having a cold or flu can affect your mouth as well?

Congestion or “stuffy nose” can cause people to breathe through their mouths. This leads to a very dry mouth and lips. Dry lips are common in cold winter months even without illness. It is important to use a lip moisturizer throughout the day to protect the lips. A moisturizer with SPF protection is preferred because the sun can still be intense even when temperatures are low. Some of my favorites are: Aquaphor Healing Ointment, Neutrogena Lip Moisturizer SPF 15, and Aveeno Lip Conditioner SPF 15.

Dry mouth can be annoying and uncomfortable. Many people describe feeling like they have cotton in their mouth. In addition, people with dry mouths tend to get more plaque and are more at risk for getting cavities. It is important to brush, floss, and drink lots of water while sick (and while healthy). There are also products available over-the-counter to help with dry mouth. One is a rinse called Oasis. Another is called Biotene, which comes in a rinse, gel, toothpaste or gum.

Many times, colds and flus lead to pressure in the sinuses. Many sinus cavities are found around the nose and cheeks. When these cavities fill with fluid and mucus, it may put pressure on the roots of your upper teeth. This can make the teeth feel tender or sensitive, especially when eating, working out, or even when simply walking. It you have sensitivity or pain that persists after your cold and flu is finished, please call Dr. Khanna for an evaluation.

Finally, it is important to replace your toothbrush after a cold or flu. You may also sterilize your brush using a UV toothbrush sterilizer. These sterilizers/sanitizers can be found online. Also, some Sonicare models come with a UV sterilizer. If you would prefer a home remedy for sterilizing your toothbrush, place it in the dishwasher without detergent. The hot water and steam will kill any germs.

II. On my way to the office, I pass by a company that has a sign outside. Every week, there is always a new phrase that makes you want to think about life in a different way. One week, the sign read “LIFE IS LIKE DRAWING WITHOUT AN ERASER”.
What we “draw” in our lives stays with us forever, and we can never go back to erase things. We teach our students the same thing. Practicing predictable complete dentistry allows us to create drawings for our patients that will leave a lasting impression. We all get one chance in life and this makes it more meaningful. Remember that our drawings stay forever in our hearts and minds, and let’s make it a good one!

We all want to take this opportunity to wish our existing patients, and bloggers a very Happy New Year for 2012. Many of our patients have told us they want to hear from you and your experiences at Khanna Dentistry. Please take a moment to write us a review on Google. You may click the link directly from our home page. New Year’s resolutions are very popular now. We encourge all of you to work hard and reaching whatever goals you have this year. If we can be of any help, please do not hesitate to contact us! Stay healthy, and we look forward to serving you in the coming months ahead. Please stay tuned for more blogs

This is a question many of our patient’s ask. The answer to this question can be complicated, but also very simple.   If you heard a “click” or “Popping” from another joint in the body (shoulder, knee, or hip), you would want to have it examined by a trained specialist. “.  Most Americans live with some form of noise in their TMJ and do not get treated for this condition. The most common noises we hear are “clicks”, and “popping”.  The most common reason for this is simply incoordination between muscles, and teeth.  A healthy functioning mouth has TMJ, muscles, and teeth all coordinated to work in harmony. This results in noise free joints, relaxed muscles, and teeth that are not worn down, or cracked.  If your teeth have shifted, are worn down, or have visible cracks, then there is a good chance that muscles maybe tender, with the possibility of joint noise.  In addition to this condition, a patient who also has night time parafunction habits (grinding/ clenching) can exacerbate or throw the system into disharmony.   The long term prognosis is good if the condition is treated properly.  Most of our patient’s who have had various conditions have been successfully treated, and are now very stable and happy.   Please feel free to send any comments on our blog.

Yours in good health,

Neeraj Khanna, D.D.S.

We are so happy to introduce our own blog. We will keep you informed about complete dentistry, and posting education tips for all to review. Stay tuned for more valuable information coming.

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