Incredible patient story highlights importance of the dental exam

Delaying care can lead to significant dental issues

TORONTO, April 3, 2013 /CNW/ - April is Oral Health Month and this year the Ontario Dental Association (ODA) is taking the opportunity to remind patients of the importance of the dental exam. A grateful patient, Linda, is working with the association to share her story as a reminder of what can happen if you avoid regular dental exams.

"With two kids and a demanding job, postponing my regular dental exam didn't seem like the end of the world - especially since I didn't have any pain or symptoms," says Linda. "I cannot express how shocked I was when my dentist found a tiny hole in my gum that lead to three surgeries and months of dental care."

In the summer of 2011, Linda went for a routine dental visit, after postponing it several times, where her dentist discovered a small hole in the upper gum area. After additional tests, her dentist diagnosed a serious infection and significant bone loss.

"The dental exam is the best way to catch problems early - often before you see or feel them, so I urge patients to make the dental exam a priority," says Dr. Arthur Worth, ODA President. "Although I wasn't involved in Linda's care, I truly believe that if her story can help prevent even one patient from suffering needlessly then it will be a great success."

During the exam the dentist is looking for several things including:

• Damaged, missing or decayed teeth.
• Early signs of cavities.
• Condition of your gums, such as periodontal pockets, inflammation or other signs of gum disease.
• Signs of mouth or throat cancer, such as white lesions or blocked salivary glands.
• Position of your teeth (e.g., spacing, bite).
• Signs that you clench or grind your teeth (a treatable problem that can cause headache or sore jaw and can, if serious, lead to hearing loss and tooth loss).
• The general condition of the bones in your face, jaw and around your mouth.

"While Oral Health Month is certainly a great time for dentists across the province to reach out to patients and remind them of the importance of good oral health - we really work to do this each and every day with every patient we care for," says Dr. Worth. "Having a regular dental exam is the best way to maintain your oral health and help combat any potential issues that could have a devastating impact on your oral health."

To read Linda's story, visit youroralhealth.ca.

SOURCE: Ontario Dental Association

Courtney Sorger 
Public Affairs & Communications
416-355-2275 

Bonnie Dean
Public Affairs & Communications
416-922-3900 x3314