“The pessimist sees difficulty in every opportunity; the optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty.” Winston Churchill.

Recently I diagnosed a patient with oropharyngeal cancer. Research shows that 70% oropharyngeal cancers are caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV). Symptoms of oropharyngeal cancer may include a long lasting sore throat, earaches, hoarseness, swollen lymph nodes, pain when swallowing and unexplained weight loss. Some people have no symptoms.

During an oral examination in our office the hygienist and I will perform an extensive oral cancer screening. We examine your oral cavity and oropharynx for lesions, changes in color, and changes in texture. Many oral cancers do not have any symptoms, therefore it is important to have regular (every 6 months) oral examinations to evaluate for those tissue changes. Remember most insurances have yearly maximums that are either used or forfeited, call for an appointment to maximize your benefits.

I am in the process of constructing a new website DrDago.com. It will be fully functional by January 1, 2019. Visit the site for the latest newsletters and interesting dental information.

Happy Holiday’s,
Michael W. Dagostino DDS