Smilescapes is proud to now offer oral cancer screening using the new VELscope technology.
The incidence of Oral Cancer continues to rise in the US and the American Cancer Society indicates an annual increase of new oral cancer rates by 11%. Alarmingly, 25 % of the new oral cancer cases are people that do not have any of the traditional lifestyle risk factors, such as age and tobacco and alcohol use.
Traditionally, dentists and hygienists have done oral cancer screening with the naked eye, but recently a new technology, the VELscope has received FDA approval. The VELscope (for Visually Enhanced Lesion scope) will help us pinpoint and identify suspicious tissue at earlier stages before they may become life-threatening concerns.
VELscope, similar to other early detection procedures like colonoscopy, mammography, PAP smear and PSA exam, is a painless, non-invasive blue light that is shined into the patient’s mouth. The images are viewed through the back of the VELscope handpiece and the hygienist or dentist may find tissue abnormalities at an earlier stage. These detected changes can range from something minor to something of greater concern that may require further examination and follow up.
Ask your hygenist about this new option in oral cancer screening at your next appointment. Here at Smilescapes, we care about your health!