Dentist noticed missing adult teeth in a patient and urged a colon cancer screening— she never expected who it would end up saving
Healthcare workers rarely get to see the full impact of the advice they give. Most days are spent moving from one patient to the next, answering questions, managing schedules, and trying to fit meaningful interactions into limited appointment times. That's why certain follow-up visits stay with providers forever. Dr. Mackenzie, who goes by @mackelleydds on TikTok, shared such an experience on Saturday, June 13, 2026. A conversation with a woman about a risk factor she had recently learned about seemed unlikely to leave a lasting impression. Months later, however, that brief exchange came back in a way that reminded her exactly why taking the time to educate individuals matters.
@mackelleydds Today was a reminder of why I do this. A few years ago, I spoke with a patient about a health concern that made me worry she might be at higher risk for colon cancer. It wasn’t the reason she came to see me, but sometimes our job as healthcare providers is to look beyond teeth and see the whole person. I’ll be honest. There are days when it feels like patients don’t want to hear what we have to say. Days when you’re running behind, trying to give everyone the time they deserve, and wondering if anything you’re saying is actually making a difference. Today that patient came back and thanked me. She told me that conversation led to further testing, and that her father was ultimately diagnosed with a serious condition that may have otherwise gone undetected. Moments like this remind me that healthcare isn’t about selling treatment. It’s about caring enough to have difficult conversations, even when they’re uncomfortable. Sometimes you never know the impact a few minutes of genuine concern can have. And sometimes, years later, you find out it mattered. #dentist #healthcare #cancer ♬ original sound - mackelleydds
According to the dentist, she noticed that a patient was missing several adult teeth and recalled learning that the condition can sometimes be associated with an increased risk of colon cancer. So, she encouraged the woman to get checked, unsure whether the advice would be acted upon. To her surprise, the person returned months later with an update. She and her father both decided to undergo tests since both had the same issue. During the dad's screening, doctors discovered numerous polyps that otherwise may have gone undetected if Dr. Mackenzie hadn't warned them. "I saved a life," she said, as she sobbed in her car while recalling the conversation.
Moments like these can feel rare in healthcare, just like it did for the dentist. Patients often arrive uncomfortable and even frustrated by delays, or simply eager to leave as quickly as possible. Medical professionals, meanwhile, are juggling endless responsibilities while trying to offer the best care they can. In that environment, education and spreading awareness can sometimes feel like an uphill battle. Yet they continue learning because they hope that one observation, or one piece of advice, might help someone in a meaningful way. And Mackenzie was able to do just that. To her, the news was more than just a positive outcome. It was the rare reassurance that her efforts had truly made a difference.
The dentist's warning was not without scientific backing. According to PubMed Central, certain inherited AXIN2 gene mutations have been linked to oligodontia-colorectal cancer syndrome, a rare condition characterized by multiple missing permanent teeth, colon polyps, and an increased risk of colorectal cancer. Researchers note that oligodontia typically refers to the congenital absence of six or more permanent teeth, excluding wisdom teeth. The viewers also had their two cents to add. @Redfishingirl said, "This is why teeth should be a part of healthcare coverage." @User16374829173638 commented, "Now you've probably helped thousands online!" @anna.carey44 also wrote, "This is so interesting. My husband has congenitally missing adult teeth, and colon cancer runs in his family."
You can follow Dr. Mackenzie (@mackelleydds) on TikTok for more content on health.
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