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Early knowledge is indeed power. In terms of treating oral cancer, it is a lifesaver. As with other cancers, oral and pharyngeal cancers are easier to successfully treat when detected early. Survival rates decrease after the disease has spread to local or distant tissues.
We encourage all patients to get into a healthy habit of routine dental check-ups at Orange and Magnolia Dental Studio in Costa Mesa, California. During these check-ups, our team cleans your teeth and gums. Our dentist, Dr. Joyce Kahng, also examines your teeth, gums, and mouth. A test may be ordered to evaluate suspicious areas further.
Cancer of the oral cavity (mouth) can generally arise in any oral tissue. These areas include:
Likewise, pharyngeal cancers arise in the pharynx (throat). Cancers may be detected in the upper throat, behind the nose, all the way down to the bottom part of the throat, and the larynx (voice box).
Oral cancer screening is fundamental to routine dental check-ups and preventive dental care. During these appointments, we get to know your risk factors for oral conditions, including cancer. Smoking and the use of any tobacco products can increase your risk of developing mouth cancers. Other risk factors include:
We work with you to minimize or eliminate these risk factors. Knowing these factors allows us to tailor a preventive program to your unique needs. Dr. Kahng will feel for lumps, bumps, and other abnormalities by touch during screenings. She will also look for potential cancer symptoms, such as discolored patches or sores.
We encourage you to share any changes you have noticed with your dentist. Potential trouble signs include problems with swallowing and changes with your oral appliances or dentures fit. You may also experience mouth or ear pain or find that some patches or sores refuse to heal. All of these concerns should be brought to our attention sooner rather than later.
New Patients: (949) 867-4346 |
Existing Patients: (949) 642-0608
For any areas that Dr. Kahng cannot see or feel, she uses precision technologies to isolate potential abnormalities. A small sample of tissue may be taken or biopsied. The cells are analyzed to rule out cancer or to confirm a diagnosis. As soon as we know what is responsible for any symptoms present, we can make an appropriate recommendation for intervention to resolve the underlying condition and restore your comfort and healthy function.
Call us without delay at (949) 867-4346. Our dental studio is conveniently located at the corner of Orange Avenue and Magnolia Street.
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Joyce Kahng, DDS, is a distinguished cosmetic dentist with over a decade of experience, recognized as one of Orange Coast Magazine’s Top Dentists for 2022 – 2024. A graduate of the University of the Pacific Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry and a former Clinical Assistant Professor at USC, Dr. Kahng integrates cutting-edge technology with a patient-centered approach at Orange and Magnolia Dental Studio. Her commitment to excellence is evident through continuous education and significant contributions to dental outreach. Awarded USC’s Outstanding Faculty in 2018, Dr. Kahng combines expert care with a genuine dedication to her patients’ well-being. She is an expert in minimally invasive cosmetic procedures such as no-prep veneers and minimal prep veneers.