A Life Without Caries

How would you like it if you and your family never got another cavity? Is this even possible? The future may be here now.

Cavities are caused by a bacterial infection known as caries. This infection is not only treatable but preventable. We use the CariFree program. Carifree was developed to help patients become cavity free by assessing risks for dental disease, diagnosing the presence of the caries infection that causes caries and treating the infection using preventive medical techniques.

During your visit you will receive a caries risk assessment. We will evaluate whether you have factors present that put you at risk for decay. We then customize a home care program with the products and instructions needed to help keep you and your family cavity free.

We would much rather help patients prevent cavities than fix cavities.

The CariFree program has been amazingly effective in doing just that.

Looking for a Dentist in Cary North Carolina?

If you are currently looking for a dentist, Dr. Gregory Mayes and Dr. Lisa Mayes at Preston Dental Center would love the opportunity to show you what exceptional dental care is all about. Their passion for beautiful smiles goes hand in hand with their professionalism and care for each and every patient.

It has never been easier to get that beautiful smile you always desired. At Preston Dental Center we combine the love of art and the science of dentistry to create beautiful smiles.

Schedule a visit today and find out why Preston Dental Center is your dental office of choice in Cary North Carolina.

Risk Factors of Oral Cancer

April is National Oral Cancer Awareness Month, and dentists are the first line of defense against this pervasive disease. So we’re going to post a series of short discussions about the facts, risks, diagnosis, and treatment of oral cancer throughout the month. Please ask questions in the comments, and don’t hesitate to contact the office with your concerns or to schedule a screening.

Earlier this month, we talked about the devastating statistics relating to fatality rates for oral cancer. Today we’re going to talk about who is predisposed to contracting it.

The first risk factor usually cited is age. Historically, the majority of cases occurred over age 40. Things have changed in this decade, however.

Most of you will guess that tobacco use is a huge risk factor, and it is. Combine that with alcohol consumption, and you’ve got a 15x greater risk than someone who does neither.

Exposure to ultraviolet radiation or x-ray radiation is another factor. Oral cancer caused by too much sun exposure has decreased, thanks to awareness and use of sunscreens. Occasional x-ray exposure is safe; this damage accumulates over a long period of time.

On the rise are oral cancers caused by viruses and fungus, especially HPV16.

All patients should be sure their dentists give them a full oral cancer screening at each regular visit, but those with the above risk factors should be especially diligent.

Are you at Risk for Oral Cancer?

One American dies from oral cancer every hour. This mortality rate has remained virtually steady for the past 40 years. But, there is a 90% cure rate only if it is detected early. According to the NCBI it is most commonly found in tissues in the lips and tongue. Smoking and tobacco use are also linked to 70-80% of oral cancer cases. Heavy alcohol use is also linked to increased risk for oral cancer. Feel like getting detected for oral cancer now?

Preston Dental knows and understands the risks of oral cancer. That is why we provide one of the most effective oral cancer screenings available in today's market. VELscope is an FDA-approved screening system, and we perform the exam using a specially designed light. Suspicious tissue is easily visible, and can then be treated. Know the disease, and know the risks. Get treated today.

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