Tooronga Family Dentistry in Glen Iris

Family dental care in Glen Iris

3 Reasons to Get an Oral Cancer Screening in Glen Iris.

Oral Cancer Awareness: Why Early Screening Matters

Next month, we recognize Oral Cancer Awareness Week by informing patients about the realities of this disease. With a 5-year survival rate of just 50%, early detection of oral cancer is essential for the best chance of successful treatment.

Why You Should Get an Oral Cancer Screening at Our Office

  • Oral cancer is rising in younger people. Once thought to mainly affect smokers and heavy drinkers, more young men and women are now being diagnosed—often due to the human papillomavirus (HPV), which increases cancer risk. Adults ages 25–50 need regular screening.

  • Screening is fast and painless. An oral cancer check takes less than five minutes. Dr. Kaufman conducts a simple visual inspection of your mouth, lips, and face for any signs of cancer or precancerous conditions during your annual dental exam. If any symptoms are detected, further diagnostic tests will be recommended.

  • Prevention and early detection are crucial. Lifestyle factors like smoking, chewing tobacco, excessive alcohol, prolonged sun exposure, and contracting HPV all raise your risk. The good news: when oral cancer is found and treated early, survival rates can reach up to 80%.

Don’t wait—schedule an appointment for your oral cancer screening today!

Gum Disease: Risks, Prevention, and Treatment for Lifelong Oral Health in Glen Iris.

It’s alarming that 3 out of 4 adults will experience gum disease (periodontal disease) during their lives, and adults over age 35 lose more teeth to gum disease than to cavities. The good news is your oral health isn’t just up to chance—gum disease can be prevented and effectively treated.

Prevention Is Key

The best approach is prevention through daily oral hygiene and regular dental cleanings. Dr. Kaufman offers professional scaling and root planing, which removes plaque and calculus from below the gum line. Smoother root surfaces allow gums to heal and halt further disease progression. After healing, twice-daily brushing, flossing, and twice-yearly checkups are essential to maintaining healthy gums.

Factors That Worsen Gum Disease

Certain lifestyle and health factors make gum disease more severe:

Reducing or managing these risks will have a significant impact on gum disease prevention.

Treatment Options

If you develop gum disease, Dr. Kaufman provides a range of non-surgical treatments: antibiotic therapy, reshaping biting surfaces, and laser-assisted scaling and root planing. If you need support or advice on managing gum disease, ask Dr. Kaufman or schedule an appointment for a personalized consultation.