To Our Patients:

Much more importantly than how we will be wiping down surfaces is how we are asking our own team members and our patients to help us prevent the spread of this as well as any other illness and protect our patients, many of whom fall into a high risk category if infected by
COVID-19.

If you don't feel well, or have been around another who has been sick and may be carrying COVID-19 or any number of other illnesses, please don't come in.

We understand that due to recent closures (of schools, universities, etc.) some of you may have child care concerns that may make it difficult to keep already scheduled appointments. Please call our office ta 303-422-2990 to reschedule your care. There will be no cancellation fees for changing your appointment for any reason during this unusual situation.

Oral Pathology Arvada, CO

In a healthy mouth, the inner lining will be covered with mucosa, a special type of skin that is smooth and pink. When changes to the appearance of the mucosa are noted, this could be a warning sign that something is going on with the pathology of your mouth, and the most serious concern is oral cancer. The following signs may indicate a cancerous growth or other pathological process:

•	White patches or leukoplakia in the mouth
•	Red patches or erythroplasia in the mouth
•	A thickening or lump in the skin that lines the inside of your mouth
•	Chronic hoarseness or sore throat
•	Difficulty swallowing or chewing

These changes can be detected in the gum tissue, palate, cheeks, lips, face, tongue, or neck. Pain might occur, but isn't always present, especially with oral cancer. However, if you do notice any oral or facial pain without an obvious reason or cause, you could be at risk for developing oral cancer.

Oral Cancer Screenings

Periodic oral cancer screenings are essential for detecting a problem while it is still treatable. Most dentists will perform an exam of your mouth during a routine dental visit in order to screen for oral cancer, and factors that can increase your risk include:

•	Heavy alcohol consumption
•	Significant sun exposure, as this can increase your lip cancer risk
•	Tobacco use
•	Previous diagnosis of oral cancer

In addition to looking for changes in the color of the inside of your mouth, your dentist may also feel the tissues of the mouth to check for abnormalities or lumps. If you wear dentures that can be removed, your dentist will likely ask you to take them out to better inspect the tissue located underneath them.

Treating Oral Cancer

If you have been diagnosed with oral cancer, you may need one of many treatment options, including: surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation. However, before commencing with the treatment, other oral health issues may need to be addressed. The reason for this is to reduce the likelihood of developing a post-therapeutic complication. Teeth that are in poor health due to cavities and periodontal disease may need to be extracted prior to oral cancer treatment in order to avoid post-radiotherapy surgery. This is essential because post-radiotherapy surgery can impact the blood supply to the jaw bone, and may lead to osteonecrosis, a condition in which the jaw bone loses its ability to repair itself.

We recommend that you perform monthly oral cancer self-exams to look for changes in the color and appearance of the inside of your mouth. Keep in mind that the mouth serves as one of the most important warning systems of the body, so you should always be on the lookout for signs of changes. Never ignore a suspicious sore or lump. If you've noticed a change that you feel could be a sign of a change in your oral pathology, don't hesitate to call us at (303) 422-2990. We'll set up a consultation to find out exactly what's going on in your mouth.

CONTACT US

Robert Cory Ryan, DDS, MD
Mountain Oral Surgery
& Dental Implant Center
7991 Vance Drive, Suite A
Arvada CO 80003
p: (303) 422-2990
e: mountainoralsurgery@gmail.com

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Proudly Serving the Denver, Arvada, Broomfield, Lafayette, Boulder, Thornton, Westminster, Wheat Ridge, & Lakewood Communities

WHY OUR PATIENTS &
REFERRING DOCTORS LOVE US

"Had an overall great experience with Dr. Ryan. The staff was very courteous and professional. Most important, the work they did, (two implants, to hold lower dentures) was very secure and I'm free of the hassle and pain. I was concerned at first but he answered all my questions and the whole procedure went well. I definitely would recomend them if you need that type of work done. 2 thumbs up!"
~ Keith I.

"Best doc we have ever been to. My son felt safe and relaxed with him and his staff."
~ George G.

"The office is well run. Everyone I had contact with was friendly and knowledgeable. Procedures were explained and all questions answered. Oral surgery can be an intimidating proposition, but Dr. Ryan and his staff are sensitive to that by providing excellent pain management and results."
~ Lisa S.

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