preventive dental care Archives - Joseph P. Cavallo DDS, MAGD

The Surprising Connection Between Breast Cancer and Oral Health

October - National Dental Hygiene Month, oral cancer, Oral Health, oral hygiene, Overall Health, preventive dental care

Breast cancer is a prevalent and life-altering disease that affects millions of women worldwide. While its causes are diverse and complex, researchers continue to uncover various risk factors and potential links to this devastating disease. One surprising connection that has gained attention in recent years is the relationship between breast cancer and oral health. During this Breast Cancer Awareness Month, your dentist in Woodbridge will explore this intriguing connection and the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene for overall health.

Understanding Breast Cancer

Before delving into the connection between breast cancer and oral health, it’s essential to grasp the basics of breast cancer. Breast cancer is a malignant tumor that originates in the breast tissue, most commonly in the milk ducts or lobules (sections that branch out from the nipple). It can affect both women and men, although it is far more common in women. Breast cancer can have various risk factors, including:

Genetics
Hormonal Influences
Lifestyle Choices
Environmental Factors

Maintaining overall health and wellness plays a significant role in reducing the risk of breast cancer.

The Oral-Systemic Connection

The oral-systemic connection is a concept that highlights the link between oral health and overall health. Your mouth is not an isolated system but rather an integral part of your body, and its health can affect other bodily systems. This connection has led researchers to explore the potential links between oral health and various systemic conditions, including breast cancer.

Oral Bacteria and Inflammation

One significant link between oral health and breast cancer is inflammation. Chronic inflammation in the body has been linked to the development and progression of many diseases, including cancer. In the oral cavity, conditions like gum disease (periodontitis) can lead to chronic inflammation due to the presence of harmful oral bacteria. These bacteria can enter the bloodstream and trigger a systemic inflammatory response, which may contribute to the growth and spread of cancer cells.

Oral bacteria, such as Porphyromonas gingivalis, have been found in breast cancer tumors, suggesting a potential connection between oral health and breast cancer. While more research is needed to establish a direct causal relationship, it underscores the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene to reduce the risk of chronic inflammation.

Hormonal Influences

Hormonal factors play a significant role in breast cancer risk. One hormone that has been linked to both oral health and breast cancer is estrogen. Estrogen receptors are present in both breast tissue and in the mouth, particularly in the skin inside of the mouth. Fluctuations in estrogen levels can affect both areas.

During menopause, many women experience changes in their oral health, including dry mouth, gum disease, and an increased risk of cavities. These changes are attributed to hormonal fluctuations, and they can coincide with an increased risk of breast cancer in postmenopausal women.

Maintaining Oral Health to Reduce Risk

While more research is needed to establish a definitive link between oral health and breast cancer, there’s no denying the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene for overall well-being. Here are some steps you can take to promote oral health and potentially reduce your breast cancer risk:

Get Regular Dental Checkups

Visit your dentist in Woodbridge regularly for checkups and cleanings. Dental professionals can identify and treat oral health issues early, reducing the risk of complications.

Brush and Floss

Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily to remove plaque and bacteria that can contribute to gum disease and inflammation.

Eat a Balanced Diet

Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is good for overall wellness as these foods provide essential nutrients for oral health and overall health.

Avoid Smoking and Alcohol

Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are known risk factors for both oral health problems and breast cancer. Avoiding these habits can benefit your overall health.

Manage Stress

Chronic stress can weaken the immune system and contribute to oral health issues. Practice stress management techniques like mindfulness, meditation, and exercise.

The connection between breast cancer and oral health is an emerging area of research that highlights the oral-systemic link and the importance of taking care of your oral health. While more studies are needed to establish definitive causation, it’s clear that maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial for overall health and may play a role in reducing breast cancer risk. By brushing and flossing regularly, eating a balanced diet, and seeing your dentist in Woodbridge at least twice a year, you can live a healthier, happier life.

How to Make a Dental First Aid Kit

Oral Health, oral hygiene, preventive dental care

Dental emergencies can certainly cause concern. However, having a well-stocked dental first aid kit on hand can make a significant difference in managing discomfort and preventing further damage. Whether you’re at home or traveling, having a dental first aid kit in addition to your traditional first aid kit is an essential part of your overall healthcare preparedness. So how exactly do you make a dental first aid kit? Your dentist in Woodbridge is here to guide you through the process of assembling your own comprehensive dental first aid kit.

Steps to Making a Dental First Aid Kit

Gather Essential Supplies

Before you start assembling your dental first aid kit, it’s important to understand the supplies you’ll need. Use this list to make sure you include all of the essentials.

Pain Relief

Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can provide temporary relief from dental pain. Just make sure you follow package instructions, know what you’re able to take, and never apply the pain medication directly to the tooth or gums.

Oral Analgesic Gel

A soothing oral analgesic gel can provide immediate, yet temporary, relief from gum irritation, toothache, and mouth sores.

Temporary Filling Material

A temporary dental filling material can be used to seal a cavity and protect the exposed area until you can see a dentist. However, it’s crucial that you only use this for a short period of time and you schedule an appointment with your dentist in Woodbridge as soon as possible.

Dental Wax

Dental wax is useful for covering sharp edges of orthodontic appliances or chipped teeth that may be causing irritation or discomfort.

Dental Floss

Dental floss can help dislodge food particles or debris that gets stuck between teeth, preventing potential infections and discomfort.

Cotton Balls and Swabs

Cotton balls can be used to help control bleeding from minor oral injuries, while swabs can help apply medication precisely.

Sterile Gauze

Sterile gauze pads are also helpful for controlling bleeding and keeping wounds clean.

Dental Mirror and Flashlight

A small mirror and flashlight can help you see the affected area, making it easier to identify problems.

Select a Suitable Container

Choosing the right container for your dental first aid kit is crucial to ensure that all your supplies stay organized and easily accessible. A small, waterproof container with compartments is ideal for storing and protecting your dental first aid items. Consider using a pill organizer or a travel-sized toiletry bag to keep everything in order.

Include Instructions

If you’re creating a dental first aid kit for your family, friends, or travel companions, it’s a good idea to include simple instructions on how to use the items in the kit. This can be particularly helpful for those who may not be familiar with dental first-aid techniques.

Personalize Your Kit

Customize your dental first aid kit to meet your specific needs. If you or a family member wear braces, be sure to include orthodontic wax and tools for brace adjustments. If you’re an avid athlete, consider adding a mouthguard to protect your teeth during physical activities.

Regularly Check and Restock

Your dental first aid kit isn’t a one-and-done project. It’s important to periodically check the contents of your kit and restock any items that have been used or have expired. This ensures that your kit is always ready for any dental emergency that may arise.

While a dental first aid kit is invaluable for managing minor dental issues, it’s essential to still see your dentist in Woodbridge, especially if you experience severe pain, excessive bleeding, a knocked-out tooth, or any other significant dental emergency.

Oral Health and the Risk of Alzheimer’s

general dentistry, Oral Health, preventive dental care

Maintaining good oral hygiene is a practice ingrained in our daily routines, from brushing and flossing to regular dental check-ups with your dentist in Woodbridge. But did you know that your oral health can affect more than just your smile? Recent research has uncovered a surprising link between oral health and the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, shedding light on the importance of taking care of your teeth and gums for more than just cosmetic reasons

Connection Between the Mouth and the Brain

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder characterized by memory loss, cognitive decline, and behavioral changes. While the exact cause of Alzheimer’s remains unknown, researchers have identified several risk factors, including genetics, age, and lifestyle. But that’s not all. In recent years, a growing body of evidence suggests that poor oral health might also play a role in increasing the risk of Alzheimer’s.

The link between oral health and Alzheimer’s risk is rooted in the interesting connection between the mouth and brain. The mouth naturally contains a diverse community of bacteria, some of which can cause gum disease if not properly managed. This is where the problem starts. Inflammation caused by gum disease can lead to the release of harmful substances into the bloodstream, allowing them to travel throughout the body. These substances can potentially reach the brain and contribute to the formation of something called amyloid plaques, which is a distinctive feature of Alzheimer’s disease. These plaques disrupt communication between brain cells and contribute to the cognitive decline seen in Alzheimer’s patients.

The Role of Inflammation

Inflammation is a common immune response that helps the body fight off infections and heal injuries. However, chronic inflammation, often triggered by infections or other factors like poor oral hygiene, can have detrimental effects on overall health. In the context of Alzheimer’s disease, researchers believe that chronic inflammation resulting from untreated gum disease might contribute to the progression of Alzheimer’s.

Preventive Measures for Reducing Risk

While more research is needed to fully understand the intricate relationship between oral health and Alzheimer’s risk, taking proactive measures to maintain good oral hygiene can potentially have a positive impact on overall brain health. Here are some practical steps you can take:

Brush and Floss: Brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing daily can help remove plaque and dangerous bacteria.

See Your Dentist: Routine checkups with your dentist in Woodbridge are essential for preventing and detecting oral health issues early on. Your dentist can identify signs of gum disease and provide appropriate treatments to prevent its progression.

Eat Healthy: A balanced diet not only supports overall health but also contributes to strong teeth and gums. Avoid excessive sugar intake and opt for a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.

Drink Water: Drinking water helps maintain saliva production, which plays a crucial role in protecting your teeth and gums from bacteria. Saliva helps neutralize acids, cleanse the mouth, and remineralize teeth.

Quit Smoking: Smoking is a known risk factor for gum disease. Quitting smoking not only benefits your oral health but also has positive effects on your overall well-being.

Manage Chronic Conditions: Conditions like diabetes and heart disease are linked to both oral health issues and an increased risk of Alzheimer’s. Managing these conditions can indirectly contribute to better oral health.

While the connection between oral health and Alzheimer’s risk is still being explored, there’s a clear indication that maintaining good oral hygiene can have far-reaching effects on our overall health. By prioritizing regular dental care, managing inflammation through proper oral hygiene, and making healthy lifestyle choices, you can potentially reduce your risk of not only gum disease but also Alzheimer’s disease. If it’s been more than six months since your last dental checkup, schedule a visit with your dentist in Woodbridge today. Remember, a healthy smile might just contribute to a healthier mind.

5 Damaging Dental Trends on Social Media

Overall Health, preventive dental care

The internet is full of great information, but it can be difficult to tell the difference between wise advice and dangerous trends. This is particularly true when it comes to health tips and dental tricks. However, your dentist in Woodbridge wants to warn you that there has been a rise in social media trends that can directly damage dental health.

DIY Dentistry Dangers

Taking a do-it-yourself approach to anything involving your oral health is concerning. But when thousands of social media stars showcase their at-home dental care to millions of people, some patients are bound to try these techniques. Here are five of the most damaging DIY dental trends on social media.

Whitening

We understand that having a bright, white smile is desirable, and there are many ways your dentist in Woodbridge can help whiten your teeth. However, some trends online claim that different concoctions of household products can whiten teeth quickly. The problem is that these mixtures usually contain very acidic ingredients that can easily weaken tooth enamel, make it easy for cavities to form, and can even cause teeth to appear darker. The other problem? They don’t work.

Orthodontics

Even before the days of social media, teenagers would put items in their mouths to mimic the look of braces. This still happens, but it’s been taken one step further. Social media influencers are often seen using everyday items to try and close gaps in their teeth or straighten overlapping teeth. Not only can moving teeth on your own cause major alignment problems and issues with your bite, but some of the materials used can also restrict blood flow, causing teeth to die and potentially fall out.

Filing Teeth

One of the most widespread trends currently shows users filing down their teeth into tiny points, also known as the “veneers check” trend. The idea is that filing the teeth down will prepare them for veneers. Not only does this trend make us cringe, but it’s also incredibly dangerous. First, veneer prep from your dentist in Woodbridge does not require filing down teeth this way. Second, filing healthy, natural teeth can cause permanent damage and require professional treatment such as dentures.

Prosthetic Teeth

If you’re missing a tooth and decide to have it replaced with a dental implant, your dentist will also custom-create a crown (the white part of the tooth) to complete your smile. However, social media trends showcase very popular videos of patients creating their own prosthetic teeth or sometimes even partial dentures using arts and crafts supplies.

Gluing Fangs

With Halloween right around the corner, it won’t be surprising to see a few ghosts, goblins, ghouls, and vampires around. But usually, these are found in decorations or costumes. Yet there is a concerning trend of using very strong, permanent (and toxic!) glue to attach vampire fangs to teeth.

We can’t stress enough how dangerous these trends are. If you’re unhappy with your smile and want to change something about the way your teeth look, always start by talking with your dentist in Woodbridge about your options.

Gum Disease Linked to Colon Cancer: Know Your Risk

general dentistry, Gum Disease, Oral Health, preventive dental care

An updated study conducted by the American Academy for Cancer Research of nearly 43,000 people over several years has shown a potential positive correlation between gum disease and an increased risk of colon cancer. While the whole-body complications associated with gum disease, such as heart disease, aren’t new, the link to colon cancer is a relatively recent topic of interest to researchers and your dentist in Woodbridge.

The Link Between Gum Disease & Colon Cancer

The study that examined the potential link between gum disease and colon cancer took several things into consideration – health, lifestyle, and pathology reports from routine colonoscopies. Those pathology results showed something interesting about those participants who had serrated polyps and conventional adenomas, the two types of intestinal lesions that can cause colon cancer, and who also had a history of gum disease.

Patients with a history of gum disease had:

A 17% increased risk of having a serrated polyp
An 11% increased risk of having a conventional adenoma

But that’s not all.

Patients who had lost four or more teeth, which is a very common side effect of gum disease, had a 20% increased risk of having a serrated polyp.

While this research does suggest a correlation between gum disease and colon cancer, the scientists did state that more research is needed to fully understand how oral health can affect gut health.

Signs of Gum Disease

If caught early, gum disease can be reversed and the risk of other oral health and overall health complications decreases. However, untreated gum disease will eventually reach a point where it can no longer be cured. This greatly increases the likelihood that gum disease will lead to tooth loss and cause other problems throughout the body. This is why your dentist in Woodbridge encourages all patients to know the early warning signs of gum disease so you can seek treatment sooner rather than later.

Some of the most common signs of gum disease include:

Chronic bad breath
Swollen, red gums
Bleeding gums
Loose teeth
Gum recession

4 Ways to Protect Against Gum Disease

Gum disease can be caused by any number of things, but there are some habits that can substantially increase someone’s chances of getting it. The best ways to protect yourself against gum disease are to:

Brush your teeth twice a day

Floss daily

Quit smoking or using tobacco products

See your dentist in Woodbridge at least every six months

If you suspect that you may have gum disease, we recommend scheduling a dental appointment as soon as you can. After all, early treatment is key to protecting your teeth and your body.

How Does COVID-19 Affect Oral Health?

general dentistry, Oral Health, oral hygiene, Overall Health, preventive dental care

By now, we’ve all heard of the term “COVID long-hauler,” which is used to describe patients who have recovered from COVID-19 but still experience some long-term side effects. However, did you know that your dentist in Woodbridge is also seeing a slew of oral health complications in both adults and children who have contracted and recovered from COVID-19?

Taste & Smell

Perhaps the most well-known symptom of a COVID-19 infection is the loss of taste or smell. While this doesn’t happen to everyone, it is a fairly common side effect. There is still some debate about why this happens. One of the potential explanations is that since COVID is a respiratory virus, and the respiratory system includes the nose and the mouth, the cells included in these areas can be infected and cause inflammation. In turn, this inflammation can change a person’s ability to smell and taste. More research is needed to conclusively determine the cause, but this is a current working theory.

Ulcers

Medical researchers who continue to study COVID-19 suggest that the infection damages blood vessels in the body, including in the mouth. According to The Angiogenesis Foundation, when blood vessels are damaged, it prevents oxygen from being delivered throughout the body and can basically starve the tissue. If this happens in the gums, the result can be ulcers. Additionally, a study published in the Journal of Dental Research found that over 80% of patients that were hospitalized with COVID-19 noticed lesions or ulcers in their mouths. While most ulcers should go away and heal on their own as you get better, if an ulcer lasts longer than two weeks (and you’re feeling better and testing negative), you should see your dentist in Woodbridge.

Dry Mouth

Dry mouth is one of those things that doesn’t just affect COVID-19 patients. In fact, dry mouth can be caused by numerous things such as medication, smoking, dehydration, and some diseases. However, COVID-19 patients and “long-haulers” tend to experience new or worsening dry mouths. The virus that causes COVID-19 can affect the salivary glands and reduce their ability to produce enough saliva. Without saliva, we’re left with the feeling of a dry, desert-like mouth as well as an increased risk for developing cavities, gum disease, and other oral health problems. Your dentist in Woodbridge can often help relieve the symptoms of dry mouth, so make sure to mention this at your next appointment.

Gum Inflammation

We previously mentioned how infection can cause inflammation in the blood vessels but inflammation can also occur in other areas throughout the body. Brought on by a surge of white-blood-cell-rich blood to the infected areas, inflammation in the mouth, particularly the gums, can result in red, painful, swollen, and oftentimes bleeding gums. These symptoms may resolve on their own, but you should monitor recovery at home and schedule an appointment with your dentist in Woodbridge if you notice changes or if it’s not getting better. Red, swollen gums that tend to bleed can also be a sign of gum disease, which can be serious. So it’s better to get checked out sooner rather than later.

The prevalence of COVID-19 continues to be challenging. During these times, and all times, we encourage our patients to do everything they can to keep themselves and their teeth healthy, including brushing and flossing daily and maintaining routine dental checkups.

Receding Gums

Cosmetic Dentistry, Oral Health, preventive dental care, receding gums, restorative dentistry

Receding gums is a common dental problem that happens gradually and oftentimes goes unnoticed. When bacteria in the mouth increases, pockets form between the teeth and the gums. This causes the gum line to wear away and expose more of the tooth. Receding gums can lead to tooth decay, bone, teeth and tissue loss.

Symptoms of Receding Gums

If you are exhibiting the following symptoms, you may have developed receding gums.

Visible gaps between the teeth and gums
Loose teeth
Sensitive teeth
Chronic bad breath
Swollen, red gums
Longer teeth

Causes of Receding Gums

Here are some factors that can cause receding gums:

Poor dental hygiene: Not following good dental hygiene practices will cause the bacteria in your mouth to increase. When this happens, the plaque turns into tartar. To avoid this, brush and floss your teeth twice a day and use an antibacterial mouthwash.
Diabetes: High diabetic levels can cause bacteria to increase in the mouth which can lead to receding gums.
Gum disease: Gum disease is the main cause of receding gums. Increased bacteria in the mouth causes inflammation and infections that destroy gum tissue and bone that hold teeth in place.
Brushing your teeth too hard: Brushing your teeth too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can cause the enamel on your teeth to wear away causing your gums to recede.
Genes: If your family has a history of receding gums, you may be predisposed to gum disease.
Hormones: Fluctuating hormone levels such as puberty, pregnancy, and menopause can cause the gums to be more sensitive making you susceptible to gum recession.
Tobacco: Cigarettes and chewing tobacco can damage your gums and cause them to recede.

Treatment

Early diagnosis can slow down and prevent gum loss before too much damage occurs. Dr. Cavallo can treat gum recession through deep cleaning and antibiotics. If there is significant tissue loss you will need gum surgery. If teeth are lost or become misaligned because of gum recession, Dr. Cavallo can offer several dental cosmetic options to replace lost or misaligned teeth.

Dr. Joseph P. Cavallo and the team at Woodbridge VA Dentistry are available to help you choose the best gum recession treatment option that will improve your oral health and restore your smile. Contact us for a consultation.

National Dental Hygiene Month

October - National Dental Hygiene Month, oral hygiene, preventive dental care, Uncategorized

October is National Dental Hygiene Month!

Dr. Cavallo and his team at Woodbridge VA Dentistry work hard to make sure that our patients practice good dental hygiene on a regular basis.

By developing a daily oral care routine, you can prevent other issues that may affect your overall health. Many people are not aware that poor oral hygiene can lead to a number of medical issues such as gum disease, infections, bone loss, heart disease, strokes, and oral cancer. In addition to practicing good oral hygiene, you should see a dentist every six months. Routine check-ups are key to maintaining good oral health.

Dr. Cavallo wants to make your visits comfortable and pleasant. He will advise you every step of the way.

What Happens at a Routine Check-up?

Before the first appointment, Dr. Cavallo will need your complete medical history. He will also need to know of any prescribed medications you are taking. He needs to be aware of any health concerns in order to avoid the incident and make sure you are receiving the best care possible.

Teeth Cleaning

At your appointment, you will receive a thorough tooth cleaning. This is usually done by the dental hygienist and involves:

Scraping off built-up plaque and tartar above and below the gum line.
Flossing between and around every tooth to remove any plaque or food articles.
Teeth polishing to get rid of any additional residue that may have been missed.

Examination

Next, Dr. Cavallo will examine your teeth to see if there are any problem areas in your mouth such as swelling of gums, mouth sores, and redness. He will also measure your mouth’s periodontal pockets to make sure there are no signs of gum disease.

Dental X-Rays

X-Rays of your mouth will be taken to determine if there are any issues below the mouth’s surface. X-rays show what the natural eye cannot see. Dr. Cavallo will be able to see the roots below the gum line, and your jawbone. This will help to determine if there are any other issues.

Once the exam is completed, Dr. Cavallo will advise you of any issues and the next steps to take to improve or maintain good dental hygiene and oral health.

Tips for Practicing Good Dental Hygiene:

Brush and floss your teeth twice a day.
Use toothpaste with fluoride.
Limit alcohol use.
Avoid tobacco products.
Monitor your diet and sugar intake.
Get routine check-ups every month.

Preventive Dental Care in Woodbridge, VA

preventive dental care

Practicing preventive dental care is an essential part of maintaining excellent oral health. Woodbridge dentist Dr. Joseph Cavallo encourages patients to maintain a healthy oral hygiene routine and schedule routine dental checkups to minimize their risk of developing complex dental problems. Patients would be surprised to learn that many common dental concerns can be avoided if patients practice preventive dental care. If you haven’t visited the dentist for your preventive care exam or you have any questions about your oral health, contact our Woodbridge, VA dental care team.

Why Practice Preventive Dental Care

Not only does practicing preventive dental care help keep your teeth healthy, but it may help keep your body healthy as well. Many patients have heard the expression the mouth is the gateway to the body; but what does that expression mean?

Recent studies have shown a correlation between gum disease and serious health concerns, such as stroke, diabetes, heart attack, and cardiovascular disease. Gum disease is a bacterial infection that affects the gums and teeth. If gum disease if left untreated, it may lead to complex health concerns that may require advanced treatment. Our goal is to avoid complex dental problems and equip patients with the tools and knowledge needed to maintain a healthy smile.

During your preventive dental care visits, patients will receive a professional dental cleaning which removes tartar and plaque buildup that regular brushing and flossing cannot reach. We use Cavitron® ultrasonic scaler to effectively clean teeth. We incorporate advanced methods and state of the art technology to help improve patient smiles and provide predictable results. To ensure your teeth are healthy, Dr. Cavallo will perform a comprehensive exam to check for any signs of complex dental problems. If treatment is needed to restore health to your teeth, Dr. Cavallo will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that addresses your dental needs. We offer a full range of cosmetic, restorative, and general dentistry services in our Woodbridge dental office.

Dr. Cavallo is an experienced dentist in Woodbridge, VA committed to providing personalized solutions for patients who are in need of dental care. If you are searching for a trusted dentist in Woodbridge, or Northern VA area, visit Dr. Cavallo.

Get Screened in Woodbridge, VA

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Regular screenings for complex dental problems like oral cancer and gum disease can get you the early diagnosis needed to get you the right solution for your health. As an experienced dentist, Dr. Joseph Cavallo has seen numerous cases of dental issues that could have been avoided with preventive dental care. Dr. Cavallo recommends that patients should visit his Woodbridge dental office at least twice a year for routine screening, comprehensive exam, and professional dental cleanings. Each aspect of preventive dental care is set into place to help patients avoid the development of complex dental problems and to keep their smile healthy and functional.

Get Screened in Woodbridge, VA

Dr. Cavallo offers advanced treatment options for patients with complex dental problems. As a highly skilled restorative and cosmetic dentist, Dr. Cavallo uses his skill and expertise to get you the treatment you need to restore health back to your smile. Dr. Cavallo stresses the importance of regular screenings during you visit. At your biannual preventive care exam, Dr. Cavallo will screen for oral cancer and gum disease. Oral cancer remains one of the most under-diagnosed cancers. Sometimes patients don’t notice the signs until the advanced stage of oral cancer. By scheduling regular visits, Dr. Cavallo can thoroughly examine your oral cavities to look for signs of oral cancer like lumps, sores, bleeding and loose teeth. During this time, patients can also disclose other symptoms they may feel like a sore throat, difficulty swallowing, persistent bad breath, difficulty moving the jaw, and any pain or discomfort they may feel. Dr. Cavallo works with you get you the treatment you need. If necessary, Dr. Cavallo will work with your primary care physician to get you the treatment you need to restore your health.

Dr. Cavallo also screens for gum disease during your preventive care visit. Gum disease is preventable with regular visits to the dentist and a healthy oral hygiene routine. During your visit, Dr. Cavallo will check for signs of gum disease. If gum disease is caught in its earliest stage (gingivitis), Dr. Cavallo may be able to restore your gum health with an antibacterial rinse or a professional dental cleaning. If gum disease is left untreated, it may progress to a more advanced stage of gum disease (periodontitis), patients may need scaling and root planing and/or gum surgery. Dr. Cavallo will work with you to find the right solution for your smile.

If you haven’t set up a preventive care exam, visit our Woodbridge, VA dental office. Patients can call our office to schedule an appointment or schedule an appointment online.

preventive dental care

The Surprising Connection Between Breast Cancer and Oral Health

How to Make a Dental First Aid Kit

Oral Health and the Risk of Alzheimer’s

5 Damaging Dental Trends on Social Media

Gum Disease Linked to Colon Cancer: Know Your Risk