Oral Cancer Screening IN Matteson, IL

What You need to know about oral cancer screenings

At Progressive Dental & Associates, we encourage you to schedule an oral cancer screening today. If you have not yet taken this life-saving measure, you should. Oral cancer is a disease not frequently discussed. There are few, if any, advertising campaigns, walks, or fundraisers supporting its treatment. Still, oral cancer claims one life every day in the United States. The reason for the high mortality rate is that most people do not seek medical help until the cancer has advanced. As with all forms of cancer, early detection and treatment are critical to the ability to be cured. Therefore, the sooner you know that you are at risk for cancer or are developing signs of it, the better your chances are of beating it.
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What Does An Oral Cancer Screening Entail?

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At Progressive Dental & Associates, we will look for signs of abnormal tissue. Typically, we will see visible symptoms like red and white bumps, hard lumps, rough patches, or changes in the position of your teeth. Much of the screening is done visually. However, Dr. Durr will also feel your cheeks and the inside of your mouth while wearing gloves. This is to identify whether or not you have any strange or hard lumps within this tissue. Remember, oral cancer can impact all areas of the mouth, so the examination must be thorough.
Since technology is constantly improving, we may use other testing resources when you come in and will be happy to discuss the process with you when you visit our 60443 dental office. We guarantee that the test is gentle and that you should feel comfortable during it.

How frequently should I have an Oral Cancer Screening?

We highly recommend scheduling your first exam at our Matteson, IL dentist office. During this visit, our dental team will assess your risk factors and evaluate your oral health. Based on our findings, we will provide guidance on the recommended frequency of future examinations.
For individuals deemed high-risk, we may advise annual screenings to ensure early detection and proactive management of any potential oral health concerns.
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Understanding Oral Cancer Vulnerability

Changing demographics and misconceptions

The common misconception is that only older men get oral cancer. Previously, oral cancer had a 10:1 ratio of occurrence in men compared to women. However, over time, the statistics have changed due to shifting habits between genders. As women have started drinking alcohol and smoking more, the published ratios now stand at 2:1.

Recommendations for diligent screening

If you engage in habits such as smoking, alcohol consumption, or have been diagnosed with the HPV virus, it is crucial to be particularly diligent about oral cancer screening. These risk factors heighten the importance of regular check-ups to ensure any signs or symptoms of oral cancer are detected at an early stage.

Importance of oral cancer screening

Dr. Durr emphasizes the importance of oral cancer screening for all adults. However, individuals who smoke, drink alcohol, or know they have the HPV virus should be particularly diligent about regular screenings. Early detection of oral cancer significantly improves treatment outcomes and increases the chances of successful recovery.

Role of HPV and its impact

Recent medical research has revealed that certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV) can cause oral cancer. This discovery has reshaped our understanding of the disease and the individuals who need to be screened for it. The HPV virus can be contracted as early as the teenage years, meaning that both men and women, seniors, and teenagers are susceptible to developing this devastating disease.
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Do You Treat Oral Cancer?

No, at Progressive Dental & Associates, we do not treat oral cancer. We help to catch it. When it comes to cancer, early detection is of critical importance. It can literally save your life. Since we are the most familiar with how your mouth looks normally, we are the best prepared to identify any abnormalities. If we see anything that looks like pre-cancer or cancer, we will may perform a biopsy. This is where a portion of the tissue is taken from your mouth for further testing.
In some cases, we may refer you directly to an oncologist in the 60443 area so they can perform further tests and then discuss treatment options with you.

How Can I Prevent Oral Cancer?

The most important thing you can do for decreasing your risk is to stop chewing smokeless tobacco products. This is the biggest historical risk for developing oral cancer. While it is better for your lungs than smoking cigarettes, it can increase your risk for oral cancer by 60 times! You should also stop smoking all tobacco products and limit how much alcohol you drink. It does not appear that alcohol in limited quantities is dangerous, but if you drink regularly or binge drink, you are at a greater risk. You also need to limit your sun exposure and prevent sunburns whenever possible.
As for the HPV virus, you should speak with your general physician to find out if you are a candidate for the vaccine. You may also want to be tested to find out if you already have the virus.
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When To Call Us

You can be the first line of defense when it comes to catching oral cancer. Dr. Durr recommends that you spend a few seconds examining your mouth after brushing your teeth. All you need to do is run your tongue along your cheeks, gums, and the roof of your mouth. If you notice any rough patches, lumps or bumps, make note of it. Do the same thing a few days later. If what you felt was the result of being sick or eating food that was too abrasive, it should go away after a few days. When it doesn’t, you need to call our office for an oral cancer screening and examination.
The other thing to watch for is teeth that move for no particular reason. If they are pushed out of place, something must have been pushing them. Occasionally, that something is cancer.

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Meet Our Doctor

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Robert D. Durr, D.M.D. F.I.C.O.I.

Robert D. Durr, D.M.D.

Dr. Robert D. Durr graduated from Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine.

Dr. Durr attends countless hours of continuing education at post-doctoral symposiums all over the country every year. Dr. Durr is a fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantology and member of DOCS. Since he began practicing dentistry, he has kept up-to-date on many of the latest products, procedures and dental technology, ensuring that his patients receive the most comprehensive and advanced dental care possible.

Testimonials From Our Patients

We are thrilled to offer exceptional services that exceed expectations!
Bobbie Stewart
October 16, 2024
For over 2 weeks, we have been going back and forth to the emergency room and finally was told it was a dental concern. Once we figure that out, we called several dentists for an emergency appointment because the medical doctor says it must be taken care within 2 days. After calling that morning, we were able to get an appointment that afternoon, immediately. The receptionist schedule the appointment, check my insurance while on the telephone. Her personality and customer care was exceptional. She offered sincere care for the problem and concern. When someone is experience a difficult time when a love one is sick. It can be overwhelming . It was so refreshing to have someone that actually cared. Now we are on the right track to recovery. Thank you soooo much. My family now has a new dentist. Signed, grateful
Leonard Harris Jr (BabyLeonard)
September 25, 2024
Well, I was just there this morning at 10am The dental office called me this morning because my appointment wasn’t until 3:00 PM today they asked me if I could come in earlier at 10 AM and I said YES and I did It is now 4:46pm so need a little more time to see how this cap work out. But thanks for the chance to give feedback need a little more time to come to a conclusion. The dental office was very clean,the dentist himself and the technicians very knowledgeable. Would I refer PROGRESSIVE DENTAL yes I would if you can afford to work. THANKS
Clemmle Mclntosh
September 10, 2024
Staff was very friendly, the Dentist was extremy knowledge and professional. I was very impress and made me feel good about myself. Dr. Dunn assured me that he was going to bring back my smile again. Thanks Progressive! Clemmie McIntosh. I will be spreading the word!
Donna Grant
July 30, 2024
I have been getting dental care from the progressive team for almost 2 years now and I love every minute, I never had to wait, flexible schedule, exceptional customer service from the front to the back. Everyone is so welcoming. It’s life. Family home you’re visiting. I will recommend progressive every time.
Beverly Colar-Credelle
July 18, 2024
It was my second time, within a month, visiting this dental office. The establishment is very clean and well organized. The front desk staff (Sharon and Susan) are friendly and professional. My service, for both visits, was provided by the dental hygienists Ms. Kayla Scott. She was very professional, thorough and gentle. Well, since I’m in this for the long haul, to get back on track with my oral care after my previous dentist abruptly closed his practice in 2022, I’m glad I am very pleased with the service provided at Progressive Dental. I recommend this practice!
Delorise Cunigan
June 27, 2024
Great service and staff! I am always happy with my services and the care that I receive.
Theresa Wright
June 17, 2024
The dental technician was very Nice. I hope she will cleaned my teeth on my next appointment.
Charlotte Bumpers
June 17, 2024
My dentist hygienist was knowledgeable, friendly and mostly patient, since I act like a 5 year old no matter what services are rendered😊

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