For years we have been emphasizing the need for regular dental check-ups. In addition to helping prevent tooth loss, we're also saving lives. Last week, on a routine check up visit, a panoramic x-ray showed us a blockage in the Carotid Artery, which could potentially have caused a stroke. One of the biggest life-extending things you can do for yourself, according to AARP Magazine, is to floss daily. That's because plaque from the mouth can cause vascular problems like heart attack and stroke. Visit the Floss or Die pages of our website for further information.

Many of you don't realize that everytime you're seen for a check-up, we perform an oral cancer exam. In the past year we've intercepted several early cancerous lesions. Here's a thank you note that everyone reading should take to heart:

Dr Markus, Melissa and the great staff at The Centre For Dentistry. I want to thank you so much for detecting the white lesion under my tongue last Tuesday while cleaning my teeth. I know in the past I have never been one to be very punctual as to my six month appointments but for some reason this time, with help and reminders from your staff, I did come in for my appointment on time. Six months ago you introduced me to a liquid screening cancer test, which was optional and not covered by insurance. I accepted and the results were negative.

This time Melissa detected a white patch under my tongue while performing her normal cleaning and inspecting. Additional procedures were followed which concluded a very high chance of tongue cancer.

To say the least, I was in shock. I am 62, never been in a hospital, never been sick, have not missed a day of work in 20 years, travel the world and work 70 hours a week. I was at a loss as to what to do. Dr Markus in his always professional manner, directed and counseled me with several phone calls that evening.

I thank you all very very much for doing a great job, detecting the problem and your counsel. I think I will start having my normal checkups every four months instead of six.

Just as an update, as of today and the process that I am following: I have a friend and a long time business associate at a law firm in Philadelphia. She is a double breast cancer survivor and continues to doctor today with great success at Penn Medicine. Called her within an hour of getting home, she called Dr David Mintzer, Chief, Section Head of Hematology-Oncology, Penn Medicine, he reviewed the situation and referred me to Jason G Newman, MD also at Penn Medicine. Met with Dr Newman this morning for 45 minutes, followed by a biopsy.

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His initial feel is that it may or may not be cancer but an unusual lesion. I have a follow up appointment next Monday for the biopsy results. If not cancerous or if it is pre-cancerous he will operate in the office. If it is cancer, he will schedule an operation within a week for its removal. Dr Newman seems very confident that the situation has been caught early and can be resolved within a short period of time without any personal issues or consequences.

Obviously the solution to what could have had dire consequences was brought to light by your great staff. Kathy and I can not thank you enough.

Will keep you updated.