In October, an impactful training took place at the University of Hawaiʻi Maui College, where dental hygiene students and faculty experienced an immersive hands-on workshop in oral cancer detection. Led by Susan Cotten, CEO of Oral Cancer Consulting, the training introduced the Cotten Method of Screening, a comprehensive approach to early oral cancer detection. This event, supported by AdDent’s Bio/Screen Oral Cancer Screening tool, highlighted the importance of both technique and technology in identifying early signs of oral cancer.
After the training, participants applied their newfound skills in a community screening event for Maui’s Micronesian community, making a meaningful impact on public health.
The Importance of Early Oral Cancer Detection
Oral cancer is often challenging to detect in its early stages without specialized tools and techniques. By the time symptoms become noticeable, the disease may already be at an advanced stage, which is why early detection is critical. Tools like AdDent’s Bio/Screen, paired with proven screening methods like the Cotten Method, play a vital role in helping dental professionals identify subtle signs of cancer early, ultimately saving lives.
The Cotten Method of Screening with Bio/Screen
Susan Cotten’s methodology, the Cotten Method of Screening, emphasizes a systematic approach that combines clinical examination techniques with the advanced capabilities of Bio/Screen, AdDent’s innovative tool designed to enhance the visibility of oral lesions that may be otherwise undetectable. This method helps dental professionals not only boost their screening accuracy but also increase their confidence in diagnosing potential oral cancers.
Training Hawaii’s Future Hygienists: The Event Highlights
Susan Cotten’s training at the University of Hawaiʻi Maui College included a comprehensive lecture followed by hands-on practice, allowing students and faculty to work directly with Bio/Screen. Students were introduced to the functionality and advantages of using fluorescence technology to support their clinical exams.
Two days after the initial training, Susan and the students applied their new skills at a free screening event for Maui’s Micronesian community, where they conducted live screenings with Bio/Screen under Susan’s guidance. The hands-on experience empowered students to confidently detect abnormalities, reinforcing their classroom learning and preparing them for real-world practice.
For many students, this was their first time conducting live screenings, and the opportunity to work with Bio/Screen added a layer of confidence and precision to their practice. By engaging directly with community members, they were able to make a positive impact while gaining invaluable experience in preventive oral health.
How Bio/Screen Can Enhance Your Practice
Adding a tool like Bio/Screen to your practice can significantly boost the quality of your oral cancer screenings. With its fluorescence technology, Bio/Screen enhances visibility, reduces screening time, and aids in the detection of potentially dangerous lesions early in their development. It is ideal for dental professionals who are committed to preventive care and early intervention.
Whether you’re part of a large practice or a solo provider, Bio/Screen can fit seamlessly into your routine. For practitioners who work in underserved communities, Bio/Screen’s reliability and ease of use make it an essential tool in bridging the gap in access to preventive care.
Bringing the Cotten Method and Bio/Screen to Your Team
Susan Cotten works closely with dental professionals in both private practices and dental service organizations (DSOs), offering training that enhances their confidence in oral cancer screening. Her workshops with Bio/Screen not only reduce the risk of missed diagnoses and liability but also promote early detection, which can save lives.
Interested in hosting Susan Cotten at your practice or dental school? Book Susan to bring her oral cancer lecture and hands-on screening workshop to your next event, conference, or team training session! Empower your team to provide the best in preventive care with proven techniques and tools like Bio/Screen. Contact Susan at oralcancerconsulting@gmail.com or visit https://oralcancerconsulting.com/
For more information on the recent event at the University of Hawaiʻi Maui College and its impact on the Micronesian community, read the full article here.
Join the Movement in Early Oral Cancer Detection!
Enhance your practice, protect your patients, and empower your team with the Cotten Method and Bio/Screen. Early detection saves lives, and with the right training and tools, you can make a real difference in your community.