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Board-Certified Pediatric DentistVisit Our Website
01
Oct
Oral cancer screening part of routine care for patients near Greensboro NC
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s dentistry has evolved, and we have gained a better understanding of the true nature of the mouth, it has become possible to identify and treat more conditions quickly and appropriately, using the most conservative methods possible. While you may envision your dental visits to involve routine x-rays, imaging, and manual visualization of teeth and gums, you are also encouraged to consider the immense benefit of oral cancer screening. Patients near our Greensboro, NC dental office, are often surprised to hear that this type of screening can be performed at every dental check-up.
The oral cancer screening is an adjunct examination that goes hand in hand with the routine exam process. There is typically no special testing that needs to be done to assess for potentially cancerous and precancerous lesions on the soft tissues of the mouth. When detected early, oral cancer is very treatable and has a greatly improved survival rate.
Who benefits from oral cancer screening?
Every person can benefit from oral cancer screening, even those without specific risk factors. Individuals who are especially encouraged to have their dentist regularly perform oral cancer screenings have risk factors such as:
- Regular use of any tobacco product, including snuff, chew, pipes, and cigarettes
- Heavy alcohol consumption
- Excessive sun exposure to the face may lead to cancer on the lips
- History of oral cancer
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What is the dentist looking for?
When performing the visual, oral cancer examination, Dentists at Triad Dentistry observe the tissues in the mouth, including the cheek, gums, tongue, and even under the tongue. Abnormalities in tissue may appear as sores or small patches of red or white tissue. In addition to visually inspecting tissues, palpitation will be done to feel for abnormalities such as lumps.
Just under 300,000 people in our country have oral cancer. According to the National Cancer Institute, an estimated 8,000 deaths per year can be attributed to this disease. With early detection, treatment can be quickly carried out in the most conservative manner possible.
Talk with your dentist about adding oral cancer screenings to your routine dental check-ups.
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Dr. Steven L. Hatcher is a skilled dentist with extensive expertise in oral health and
patient care. A University of North Carolina alumnus with a background in biology and cancer research, Dr.
Hatcher's military service at prestigious locations, including Fort Meade and the Pentagon, underscores his
commitment to excellence. He is a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry and an active member of several
professional associations. Recognized for his dedication through numerous awards, including Army
Commendation Medals, Dr. Hatcher continually advances his knowledge through ongoing education. His
patient-centered approach ensures personalized, long-term oral wellness. Connect with Dr. Steven L. Hatcher on Linkedin
Dr. Chad T. Merrell, a dedicated dentist with 16 years of experience, combines his deep expertise and advanced training to provide exceptional care. A Temple University School of Dentistry alumnus and Advanced Education in General Dentistry resident at UNC-Chapel Hill, Dr. Merrell is skilled in advanced dental techniques. His commitment to patient care, treating each as family, underscores his trustworthiness. His background includes a B.S. in Zoology from N.C. State University and an Eagle Scout honor, highlighting his long-standing dedication to excellence. You can trust Dr. Merrell for compassionate, cutting-edge dental care.
Dr. Sona J. Isharani is a board-certified pediatric dentist renowned for her compassionate care and expertise. With a background that combines hands-on parenting experience and specialized training, Dr. Isharani excels in creating a comforting, home-like environment for children and their families. Affectionately known as "Dr. Sona," she emphasizes education and preventive care to ensure lifelong dental health. At Triad Pediatric Dentistry, she provides exceptional dental care and maintains continuity of care as children transition to adulthood, reflecting her commitment to building trust and fostering long-term relationships with her patients.
Dr. Victoria L. Santiago-Coiro is a highly experienced dentist with over 16 years in practice, specializing in comprehensive dental care. She holds a degree in Molecular Biology from Montclair State University and graduated from UMDNJ-New Jersey Dental School in 2005. Dr. Santiago-Coiro earned a Fellowship from the Academy of General Dentistry in 2011 and is advancing toward Scholar status with the Dawson Academy, focusing on complex bite and TMJ issues. Her commitment to continuous learning and patient care reflects her dedication to providing exceptional dental care.
Dr. Bailey Walker is a dedicated general dentist known for her compassionate care and patient-centered approach. With a B.Sc. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biology from Illinois State University and a Doctor of Medical Dentistry degree from Southern Illinois University, she combines extensive academic knowledge with hands-on expertise. Dr. Walker is pursuing a fellowship with the Academy of General Dentistry, underscoring her commitment to professional excellence. Her community engagement includes dental mission trips and volunteering for underserved populations. Dr. Walker’s emphasis on patient education and her caring nature foster a trusted, positive dental experience.
Dr. Chad T. Merrell, a dedicated dentist with 16 years of experience, combines his deep expertise and advanced training to provide exceptional care. A Temple University School of Dentistry alumnus and Advanced Education in General Dentistry resident at UNC-Chapel Hill, Dr. Merrell is skilled in advanced dental techniques. His commitment to patient care, treating each as family, underscores his trustworthiness. His background includes a B.S. in Zoology from N.C. State University and an Eagle Scout honor, highlighting his long-standing dedication to excellence. You can trust Dr. Merrell for compassionate, cutting-edge dental care.
Dr. Sona J. Isharani is a board-certified pediatric dentist renowned for her compassionate care and expertise. With a background that combines hands-on parenting experience and specialized training, Dr. Isharani excels in creating a comforting, home-like environment for children and their families. Affectionately known as "Dr. Sona," she emphasizes education and preventive care to ensure lifelong dental health. At Triad Pediatric Dentistry, she provides exceptional dental care and maintains continuity of care as children transition to adulthood, reflecting her commitment to building trust and fostering long-term relationships with her patients.
Dr. Victoria L. Santiago-Coiro is a highly experienced dentist with over 16 years in practice, specializing in comprehensive dental care. She holds a degree in Molecular Biology from Montclair State University and graduated from UMDNJ-New Jersey Dental School in 2005. Dr. Santiago-Coiro earned a Fellowship from the Academy of General Dentistry in 2011 and is advancing toward Scholar status with the Dawson Academy, focusing on complex bite and TMJ issues. Her commitment to continuous learning and patient care reflects her dedication to providing exceptional dental care.
Dr. Bailey Walker is a dedicated general dentist known for her compassionate care and patient-centered approach. With a B.Sc. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biology from Illinois State University and a Doctor of Medical Dentistry degree from Southern Illinois University, she combines extensive academic knowledge with hands-on expertise. Dr. Walker is pursuing a fellowship with the Academy of General Dentistry, underscoring her commitment to professional excellence. Her community engagement includes dental mission trips and volunteering for underserved populations. Dr. Walker’s emphasis on patient education and her caring nature foster a trusted, positive dental experience.
