Oral Cancer Screening
Oral cancer can manifest in various areas of the mouth and throat, with the most common locations being the tongue, tonsils, oropharynx, gums, floor of the mouth, lips, cheek lining, and hard palate. Although anyone can be affected by this disease, men are twice as likely as women to develop oral cancer. Men over the age of 50 who are heavy smokers and frequent alcohol consumers are particularly susceptible. Other risk factors include exposure to UV radiation from the sun or sunlamps, gastro-intestinal reflux disease (GERD), previous radiation treatment to the head and neck, exposure to certain chemicals, and poor diet. While the death rate from oral cancer has decreased in recent decades due to early detection and improved treatment methods, there has been a recent increase in oropharyngeal cancer cases due to the transmission of the sexually transmitted human papillomavirus (HPV).
It is crucial to be conscious about oral cancer.
Despite being one of the top ten most common cancers globally, oral cancer has seen significant progress in research, prevention, detection, and treatment. These advancements have led to increasingly positive outcomes for patients. In fact, when oral cancer is identified at its earliest stages, the survival rate surpasses 80%.
Discover the benefits of using the VELscope
Our professional team can now utilize the VELscope® oral cancer screening, which provides a simple, painless, and comprehensive method to examine tissue abnormalities that could potentially indicate the presence of oral cancer or premalignant dysplasia. Although visual inspection and palpation are helpful in assessing tissue health and detecting diseases, the VELscope technology allows us to identify and observe suspicious lesions that might have otherwise been overlooked.
Enhancing and optimizing the oral cancer screening process for better results.
VELscope is a handheld device that is designed to be convenient and portable. It is highly sensitive to any abnormal changes in the natural tissue fluorescence of the oral mucosa. In simpler terms, the bright blue light of the VELscope device can differentiate between healthy soft tissue and soft tissue that has undergone pathological changes inside the mouth. This device can identify, evaluate, and monitor abnormal soft tissue changes that may go unnoticed otherwise. As a result, VELscope is a valuable addition to the oral cancer screening process.
Cutting-edge technology and reliable care you can rely on
Our goal is to deliver top-notch, comprehensive care that promotes not only stunning smiles and optimal oral health but also overall well-being. During a patient's regular checkup and dental hygiene appointment, we conduct thorough oral cancer screenings, utilizing a VELscope examination to identify any suspicious tissue changes that could potentially indicate oral cancer or other detrimental conditions. Additionally, we educate patients on the signs and symptoms of oral cancer, empowering them to monitor their oral health at home.