Oral Cancer Detection

Oral cancer is one of the most common cancers today and has one of the lowest survival rates

Oral cancer is one of the most common cancers today and has one of the lowest survival rates, with thousands of new cases being reported each year. Fewer than half of all people diagnosed with oral cancer are ever cured.

Moreover, people with many forms of cancer can develop complications-some of them chronic and painful-from their cancer treatment. These include dry mouth and overly sensitive teeth, as well as accelerated tooth decay.

If oral cancer is not treated in time, it could spread to other facial and neck tissues, leading to disfigurement and pain.

Older adults over the age of 40 (especially men) are most susceptible to developing oral cancer, but people of all ages are at risk.

Oral cancer can occur anywhere in the mouth, but the tongue appears to be the most common location. Other oral structures could include the lips, gums and other soft palate tissues in the mouth.

Warning Signs
In general, early signs of oral cancer usually occur in the form of lumps, patchy areas and lesions, or breaks, in the tissues of the mouth. In many cases, these abnormalities are not painful in the early stages, making even self-diagnosis difficult.

Here are some additional warning signs:

Hoarseness or difficulty swallowing.
Unusual bleeding or persistent sores in the mouth that won't heal.
Lumps or growths in other nearby areas, such as the throat or neck.
If a tumor is found, surgery will generally be required to remove it. Some facial disfigurement could also result.

Prevention
Prevention is the key to staving off oral cancer. One of the biggest culprits is tobacco and alcohol use. Certain kinds of foods and even overexposure to the sun have also been linked to oral cancer. Some experts believe certain oral cancer risk factors are also hereditary.

A diet rich in fruits and vegetables is one of the best defenses against oral cancer. Maintaining good oral hygiene, and regular dental checkups, are highly recommended.

Oral cancer is one of the most curable of diseases when it's caught early. That's why a simple test has been developed using technology proven successful in identifying certain types of pre-cancerous abnormalities. It's called the ViziLite test, and it's particularly important for patients at increased risk for oral cancer.

When oral cancer is found at the earliest stage, treatment is quicker, simpler, less invasive and more than 90 percent successful.

Who is at risk for oral cancer?
These factors increase your risk of oral cancer:

tobacco use including "smokeless" tobacco
heavy or chronic alcohol consumption
viral infections, particularly HPV 16/18
long term exposure to the sun (lip cancer)
a history of oral leukoplakia or erythroplakia (white or red patches on the oral tissue)
Many reports suggest that head and neck cancer, particularly tongue cancer is increasing among young adults.

The ViziLite test, in combination with a conventional visual examination, provides a clearly improved screening procedure for oral abnormalities in patients at risk for oral cancer.

What are the signs and symptoms of oral cancer?
a sore that does not heal
a white or red patch of tissue
difficulty in swallowing
a lump or mass in the mouth or neck
hoarseness that lasts for a long period
pain or numbness in the oral/facial region
pain in the ear of long duration
a change in voice
How can people reduce their risk of oral cancer?
It is important to know if you are at risk, and to know the signs and symptoms of oral cancer. You can avoid tobacco and excessive alcohol. You can tell Dr. Mallonee about your risk factors and make sure to have a regular oral cancer screening at least once a year.

The ViziLite test can help identify abnormalities that might develop into cancer.

Why does the ViziLite test make a difference?
The ViziLite test is a tool used by Dr. Mallonee to assist in the early detection of oral abnormalities. The abnormal areas that might not be seen in the conventional examination are more clearly identified with ViziLite. The ViziLite test improves the ability to identify, evaluate and monitor these abnormal areas, and that's why experts recommend it.

How is the ViziLite test performed?
First, you swish a cleansing solution in your mouth and spit it out. Then, Dr. Mallonee views your mouth using the special ViziLite light source.

The ViziLite test is fast, painless, precise and inexpensive. It can help identify abnormalities that might develop into cancer and save your life. Dr. Mallonee is among a handful of practices in the US with this approved technique to help reduce the rate of oral cancer. Most medical/dental insurance companies are now recognizing this procedure.

"Everyone over the age of 30, or individuals of any age who have used tobacco, should have an annual screening for oral cancer. Early detection saves lives." - The Oral Cancer Foundation

In November of 2001 the U.S. Food and Drug Administration cleared ViziLite as an adjunctive screening technology for use in the oral cavity, thus making it the only FDA-cleared medical device for such an application.

Call Dr. Mallonee for your ViziLite Exam Appointment. 949-640-0222

Article Updated:  September 1, 2006

A radiant, youthful smile is the hallmark of a healthy, successful appearance.

Time, however, can take its toll on teeth as they wear down, chip, and become dull, discolored and crooked, aging not only our smile but the entire face as well. Dr. Barbara Mallonée, a restorative and esthetic dentist in Corona del Mar, is uniquely trained using advanced technology to help her patients revive their smiles and create a more youthful, healthy appearance.

“Dentistry today goes far beyond filling cavities or a one-size-fits-all veneering of the front teeth for a quick cosmetic fix. It starts with listening to my patients wants and desires and developing a comprehensive plan to not only improve the appearance of the teeth but a long term solution that creates real health.” With over 26 years of experience, Dr. Mallonée has seen a metamorphosis in dental techniques and has committed herself to hundreds of hours of continuing education at many of the leading post graduate teaching facilities such as the Las Vegas Institute.

What sets Dr. Mallonée apart from many of her colleagues is her unique combination of tooth movement and esthetic dentistry with an emphasis on periodontal health, that result in dramatic changes in a surprisingly short time. “The beauty of the end results in most cases is that the patient has their own natural teeth, just enhanced and improved. In situations where the tooth structure does need more support, Dr. Mallonée uses MAC veneers to create a natural, youthful smile. “My professional responsibility is to do a thorough assessment of my patient’s condition and educate them about my findings and recommend a course of action based on my patient’s specific needs and desires. There is no pressure to proceed with treatment but rather a planning process takes place whereby the patient sets the course of action and timeframe with my guidance.”

After practicing in Irvine for 20 years, Dr. Mallonée is excited to open her state-of-the-art spa like dental facility located in the heart of Corona del Mar. The office environment is soothing and tranquil and the friendly, highly trained staff puts patients at ease. Because Dr. Mallonée puts the comfort and health of the patient first, her office utilizes the latest digital x-rays, which reduces radiation while enhancing the x-ray image. Patients undergoing treatment are provided with cozy blankets, headsets for DVD entertainment and other amenities to make their visit unlike any they have ever experienced.

Dr. Mallonée is a member of The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, The American Dental Society, The International Orthodontic Association and the Academy of General Dentistry. She is also active in the Give Back A Smile program through the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, wherein battered and abused women are treated to restore a smile destroyed from domestic violence, giving the woman renewed self confidence and healing the scars from abuse. “This is a strong testimony to the healing power of a smile, both given and received,” says Dr. Mallonée.

Technology is rapidly advancing in the field of cosmetic dentistry. Many things are possible today that years ago were only ideas. We all take the ability to chew comfortably and smile confidently for granted, but remember, ignore your teeth and they will go away! Dr. Mallonée and her team are here to help you realize that healthy, beautiful smile you have always wanted.

Article Updated:  September 1, 2006