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Why is Dental Neglect Killing People When Saving Lives is So Easy and Profitable?

Cancer and Autoimmune Disorders

 

Presented by: Erica Olsen, RDH and Chris Kammer, DDS

Original Publication Date: May 13, 2020

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 This course is available for CE Credit as a "Members Only" benefit. Not a Member? CLICK HERE to learn more about AAOSH Membership.
 

Course Description:

Oral cancer is killing one American every hour! Dentists take a lot of blame here because they aren’t finding it fast enough. That is unacceptable! Is your office properly screening or being complacent? Oral cancer statistics are growing alarmingly, with a decreasing life expectancy due to the emerging risk factors from HPV. As dental professionals, it is our job and ethical obligation to provide our patients with proper education, thorough head/neck exams, and utilize the technology available to us for the earliest detection.

90% of dentists are not using advanced technology to screen for oral cancer. By the time these dentists find oral cancer (that is if they find it), it has advanced to a late-stage disease that can lead to disfiguring surgical intervention and even death. Yet these dentists believe they are doing proper oral cancer screenings because they ask all the right questions and appropriately palpate extra and intraoral to look for visual signs with their eyes and magnification. That’s not an oral cancer screening because those dentists and hygienists essentially have their eyes closed. Friends, we have to do better than that!

Learning Objectives:

  • Identify ways to educate your patients about oral cancer statistics and make it personal so it hits home!
  • Analyze a patient's medical history, form risk assessments, and how to approach uncomfortable conversations with our patients.
  • Identify simple, precise techniques of a proper head and neck exam in conjunction with technology-enhanced visual screening of the oral cavity.
  • Recognize why incorporating technology into your protocol for early detection is a game changer and life saver.

Speaker Bios:

Dr. Chris Kammer is a past president and founder of the American Academy for Oral Systemic Health. Dr. Kammer’s work has been presented at numerous dental conferences, conventions, and seminars and has been published in leading dental journals. He is also on the technology team for the Dental Products Report. In recent years, he has been a passionate educator in the media and professional forums about the importance of the oral-systemic approach.

Erica Olsen is a hygiene warrior with fantastic passion! Now, do you believe she can set you on a course to save lives and be profitable while you do it?