Oral Cancer Screenings

Your health always comes first! Providing exceptional dental care means looking out for your total well-being. At the practice of Don B. Ruhnke, DDS, we provide routine oral cancer screenings during new patient exams and periodic checkups. We perform a careful visual and tactile examination of the oral cavity and surrounding structures to check for any abnormalities. If we notice unusual lumps, swellings, or persistent red or white patches, we may recommend a biopsy for further assessment. If you ever have questions or notice unusual symptoms, please do not hesitate to ask.

While oral cancer may not be the most common cancer, statistics show that one American dies from oral or pharyngeal cancer every hour. The death rate is high largely because it is often detected late in its development. Oral cancer affects smokers, nonsmokers, patients over 40, younger individuals, and those with a history of alcohol use or HPV. Because early stages can present without clear symptoms, regular, proactive screenings are critical.

Healthy & Minimally Invasive Dentistry

The old saying “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” is especially true in dentistry. We believe the best dental treatment is preserving your natural smile whenever possible. Routine cleanings remove harmful bacteria and plaque, helping natural teeth and dental restorations last a lifetime.

Throughout life, oral health needs evolve:

• Children & Teens: Dental sealants protect deep grooves from decay, especially during years when sugary snacks and beverages are common.

• Young Adults: Late-night studying and convenience foods can increase cavity risks, making consistent daily care essential.

• Older Adults: Decreased salivary flow and certain medications can cause dry mouth, which increases the likelihood of new or recurring decay.

Without preventative care, small cavities can grow larger over time, eventually requiring crowns, root canals, or bridges. Our goal at Don B. Ruhnke, DDS is to break that cycle through early detection, conservative treatments, and routine exams.

Healthy Habits for Your Smile

• Brush thoroughly with a soft toothbrush twice daily and floss every day.
• Eat a balanced diet and limit frequent snacking or sipping on sugary drinks between meals. Every time sugar is consumed, oral bacteria produce acids that attack enamel for up to 30 minutes until saliva neutralizes it.
• Choose dental products with fluoride, calcident, or xylitol, and opt for sugar-free gum made with xylitol.
• Schedule regular professional cleanings and checkups with Dr. Ruhnke.
• Encourage children to build great brushing habits early. Primary teeth hold space for permanent teeth and are crucial for healthy chewing and speech development. Never send a infant to sleep with a bottle of milk or juice.
• Protect your teeth with a custom sports guard for active sports, or an occlusal guard (nightguard) if you grind or clench.
• Ask about protective sealants for children, teens, or adults with deep grooves or higher cavity risks.
• Minimize or eliminate smoking, chewing tobacco, e-cigarettes, and heavy alcohol use.

Our Commitment to You

• Encouraging a lifetime of routine, gentle preventative care.
• Preserving as much of your natural, healthy tooth structure as possible.
• Educating you on your treatment options so you can make informed decisions about your health.
• Utilizing an evidence-based, scientific approach with a proven track record of safety and success.
• Delivering attentive care alongside a warm, dedicated team.