Frequently Asked Questions
We’re happy to answer any questions you might have about our dentistry services, patient procedures, and more.
Here you can find answers to our most commonly asked questions. If you have any further questions or can’t find the answer you’re looking for, please contact us and we’ll make sure you get the information you need to make a confident decision about your dental health!
Yes. While our office is located in Downers Grove, we welcome patients from Woodridge, Westmont, Lisle, Darien, Lombard, Oak Brook, and other nearby communities for oral cancer screenings and our full range of dental services.
Coverage varies by plan, so it’s a good idea to check with your insurance provider. Our Smile Easy Savings Plan also includes oral cancer screenings as part of its covered services for patients without dental insurance, and we offer financing through CareCredit®. Visit our Financial Resources page to learn more.
No. A VelScope® oral cancer screening is quick, painless, and non-invasive. It simply involves your dentist shining a safe blue light in your mouth to help visualize tissue changes, and it adds only a few minutes to your regular check-up.
Oral cancer screening is recommended for all adult patients as part of their regular dental check-up, typically every six months. Patients with higher risk factors, such as tobacco or alcohol use, or a family history of oral cancer, may benefit from more frequent screenings. Our dentists can help determine the right schedule for you.
An oral cancer exam is part of a routine dental check-up, where your dentist inspects the soft tissues of your mouth, neck, and face for any abnormalities in color or texture that could indicate a pathological issue like oral cancer. Early detection is critical for successful treatment, as the survival rate for oral cancer is around 80% if diagnosed early.
Common pathological conditions include geographic tongue (a map-like appearance with missing papillae), median palatal cysts (fluid-filled sacs that develop in the palate), and hairy tongue (a bacterial or yeast overgrowth). While many of these conditions are not life-threatening, prompt diagnosis and treatment can alleviate discomfort and prevent complications.
Visit the Patient Center to learn what to expect from your first visit, forms, financial policies, and frequently asked questions!