Oral Cancer Screening
Oral cancer can appear in various regions of the mouth and throat, with the most prevalent sites being the tongue, tonsils, oropharynx, gums, floor of the mouth, lips, cheek lining, and hard palate. While oral cancer can affect individuals of any gender, men face a higher risk, being twice as likely as women to develop this condition. Men aged 50 and above, who are heavy smokers and regular alcohol consumers, are particularly susceptible. Other contributing factors include exposure to UV radiation from the sun or sunlamps, gastro-intestinal reflux disease (GERD), past radiation treatment to the head and neck, exposure to specific chemicals, and an inadequate diet. Although the mortality rate from oral cancer has decreased in recent decades due to early detection and improved treatment methods, there has been a recent uptick in oropharyngeal cancer cases, attributed to the transmission of the sexually transmitted human papillomavirus (HPV).
It is crucial to be conscious about oral cancer.
While ranking among the top ten most prevalent cancers worldwide, oral cancer has experienced notable strides in research, prevention, detection, and treatment. These breakthroughs have translated into more favorable outcomes for patients. Specifically, when oral cancer is detected in its initial stages, the survival rate exceeds 80%.
Discover the benefits of using the VELscope
Our skilled team now employs the VELscope® oral cancer screening, offering a straightforward, painless, and thorough approach to examining tissue abnormalities that may signal the presence of oral cancer or premalignant dysplasia. While visual inspection and palpation play a crucial role in assessing tissue health and identifying diseases, the VELscope technology enhances our ability to detect and monitor suspicious lesions that might have been easily overlooked otherwise.
Enhancing and optimizing the oral cancer screening process for better results.
The VELscope is a portable handheld device designed for convenience. It boasts high sensitivity to detect any abnormal changes in the natural tissue fluorescence of the oral mucosa. To put it simply, the vivid blue light emitted by the VELscope device can distinguish between healthy soft tissue and soft tissue that has undergone pathological changes within the mouth. This device plays a crucial role in identifying, assessing, and monitoring abnormal soft tissue changes that might be easily overlooked otherwise. Consequently, the VELscope stands as a valuable enhancement to the oral cancer screening process.
Cutting-edge technology and reliable care you can rely on
Our objective is to provide exceptional, all-encompassing care that not only enhances smiles and ensures optimal oral health but also contributes to overall well-being. As part of a patient's routine checkup and dental hygiene session, we perform extensive oral cancer screenings, employing a VELscope examination to detect any suspicious tissue changes that may signal the presence of oral cancer or other harmful conditions. Furthermore, we take the opportunity to educate patients about the signs and symptoms of oral cancer, empowering them to actively monitor their oral health in the comfort of their homes.