Oral Cancer Screening
Oral cancer can manifest in various regions of the mouth and throat, with the tongue, tonsils, oropharynx, gums, floor of the mouth, lips, cheek lining, and hard palate being the most prevalent sites. While this disease can affect individuals of any gender, men are twice as likely as women to develop oral cancer. Men aged 50 and above, particularly those who are heavy smokers and frequent consumers of alcohol, face a higher vulnerability. Other risk factors include exposure to UV radiation from the sun or sunlamps, gastro-intestinal reflux disease (GERD), prior radiation treatment to the head and neck, exposure to specific chemicals, and an inadequate diet. Despite a decrease in the mortality rate from oral cancer in recent decades due to improved early detection and treatment methods, there has been a recent increase in cases of oropharyngeal cancer attributed to the transmission of the sexually transmitted human papillomavirus (HPV).
It is crucial to be conscious about oral cancer.
Although oral cancer is among the top ten most common cancers globally, significant progress has been achieved in research, prevention, detection, and treatment. These advancements have led to more positive outcomes for patients. Particularly, when oral cancer is identified in its early stages, the survival rate surpasses 80%.
Discover the benefits of using the VELscope
Our proficient team is now equipped to utilize VELscope® oral cancer screening, providing a simple, painless, and comprehensive method for examining tissue abnormalities that could indicate the presence of oral cancer or premalignant dysplasia. While visual inspection and palpation are valuable for assessing tissue health and identifying diseases, VELscope technology empowers us to precisely locate and monitor suspicious lesions that might have been overlooked through conventional methods.
Enhancing and optimizing the oral cancer screening process for better results.
The VELscope is a portable handheld device designed for ease of use. It has high sensitivity to identify any abnormal changes in the natural tissue fluorescence of the oral mucosa. In simpler terms, the bright blue light emitted by the VELscope can differentiate between healthy soft tissue and soft tissue that has undergone pathological changes within the mouth. This device can identify, assess, and monitor abnormal soft tissue changes that might go unnoticed through other methods. As a result, the VELscope represents a valuable improvement to the oral cancer screening process.
Cutting-edge technology and reliable care you can rely on
Our objective is to deliver outstanding, comprehensive care that not only improves smiles and ensures optimal oral health but also enhances overall well-being. During a patient's regular checkup and dental hygiene appointment, we conduct thorough oral cancer screenings, including a VELscope examination to identify any suspicious tissue changes indicative of oral cancer or other harmful conditions. Additionally, we provide education to patients about the signs and symptoms of oral cancer, empowering them to independently monitor their oral health at home.