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/.

I am one of Dr. Khanna’s employees and for awhile now, I have wanted to have some implants placed and some cosmetic crown lengthening done (that is when a portion of the gum tissue is removed to make your teeth look nicer and in the right proportions to your facial features). I had that work done this past week at Progressive Periodontics in Naperville. I was extremely nervous having this done as I had a bad experience with nasal surgery in the past and wasn’t sure about having my entire mouth numb and worked on. I have to honestly say that being on the other end as a patient was enlightening for me to understand what our patients must feel being in our chair.They took time to explain and had incredible patience with me, explaining everything ahead of time and were extremely gentle and thorough. It helped me to realize just how important it is to always take the time with our patients and to make sure they understand everything ahead of time. I was very humbled knowing that I have such pride in the team of professionals that Dr. Khanna has assembled to be a part of his practice and in the end feeling so incredibly wonderful about having my work done and taking every step to make sure my mouth is as healthy as it can be! I encourage everyone to ask questions and to know that we really do understand how you are feeling being in our chair and having dental work done and will ALWAYS do everything in our power to make it as easy as possible!!

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/.

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.

Yours in good health,

Neeraj Khanna, D.D.S.