Nassau Standard

Jaclyn Cooper, clinical director of Babylon Dental Care (BDC), emphasized the necessity of seeking dental care regularly to prevent oral cancer.

"Oral cancer screenings are conducted by dentists and hygienists during each hygiene visit," said Cooper. "Many people perceive their hygiene visits as mere cleanings, unaware of the broader significance these dental appointments hold for their overall health. For too long, the term "dental cleaning" has been misconstrued as a routine oral hygiene visit with minimal value beyond achieving a sparkling smile. Regular Dental Care Could Save You From Oral Cancer."

"Many people perceive their hygiene visits as mere cleanings, unaware of the broader significance these dental appointments hold for their overall health. Over the years, dental hygiene visits have evolved significantly due to numerous studies linking poor oral hygiene to various systemic conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and preterm birth weight. It is especially important to diagnose oral cancer," said Cooper.

According to the American Cancer Society, oral cancer is responsible for nearly 10,000 deaths annually in the United States, highlighting the importance of early detection and prevention. That is why oral cancer screenings are conducted by dentists and hygienists during each hygiene visit at BDC, Cooper said. These screenings involve head and neck exams performed by the provider. The examination begins with a visual inspection of the tongue, cheeks, gum tissues, and lips for any suspicious lesions. Subsequently, a palpable exam is conducted to check for any lumps or bumps. Additionally, the provider externally examines the neck and nodes to ensure nothing appears abnormal.

According to The Cleveland Clinic, oral cancer is a common cancer affecting the head and neck. With high fatality rates, early detection is key for timely diagnosis and treatment. Routine screenings give patients the best chance for finding oral cancer in its early stages. It has a five-year survival rate of 57%, which means that a little more than half of those diagnosed with oral cancer are alive five years after their diagnosis.

Babylon Dental Care takes prevention seriously. "The diagnostic phase typically includes essential radiographs, oral cancer screenings, airway evaluations, and periodontal assessments to gauge the health of your gums and surrounding bone levels. Intraoral photos are taken to detect any oral diseases while digital wellness scans track changes in your oral health over time. Personalized oral hygiene instructions are provided, followed by an examination with the dentist to review all findings," Cooper said.

According to Babylon Dental Care's website, Director Cooper has over 16 years of experience as a dental professional and leads a team committed to providing holistic care that begins with a deep understanding of each patient's medical history and extends far beyond routine dental procedures. In Cooper's vision, the journey to a healthy smile is not just about dental aesthetics—it’s about empowering patients to live their best lives with confidence and vitality.