Oral Cancer Screenings

Oral cancer screenings are one of many services we offer here at Cadena Dentistry. We provide these screenings during each dental check-up to look for early signs of oral cancer, which is usually treatable if found early. It only takes a few moments to complete and lets our patients get an early diagnosis for more successful treatment.

 

Approximately 41,000 people have been diagnosed with oral cancer in the United States in 2013 alone, according to the American Dental Association, so it is important to get screened. If you smoke or drink heavily, it is essential that you have regular oral cancer screenings.

 

The following steps are completed during oral cancer screenings:

1. An ultraviolet light is used to look inside the mouth and on the gums and tongue.

2. The outside of the face is inspected for sores, including the lips, cheeks and neck.

3. Sores and other spots are examined inside the mouth, including the cheeks, inner lips, gums and roof of the mouth.

 

Oral screenings are a part of dental hygiene exams and check-ups and take only about 5-10 minutes in total. If your doctor finds any unusual spots, a biopsy is taken of the tissue for further testing.

Traditional Braces

Traditional Braces

Here at Cadena Dentistry, we offer our patients a variety of orthodontic treatment options, including traditional braces. These are a common type of braces, and can be the most effective. They are also great for many types of orthodontic conditions, whether it is a large gap between the teeth, a severe overbite, a crossbite, or a combination of different teeth alignment issues. Not everyone is a candidate for other types of orthodontic treatments we provide here in our dental practice, which is why traditional braces are often the go-to treatment.

 

Traditional braces consist of metal brackets adhered to the teeth, thin metal wire called archwire extending between each bracket, and rubber band elastic; the latter of which is used for tightening the braces between appointments. Between these three components, the teeth gradually shift to their desired place in about 2-4 years on average.

 

After completing the process of wearing traditional braces, we encourage patients to wear a retainer at night for about a year or longer, as it helps their teeth remain in their new position.

 

If you or your child is in need of corrective orthodontic treatment, call our Del Rio dentist Dr. Louis Cadena at 830-775-3322 to ask about traditional braces.