Oral Cancer Screening with VELscope in Southern California

Oral Cancer Screening with the VELscope in Southern California

Here are few sobering facts about oral cancer:
• The incidence of oral cancer increased 11% in the United States in 2007
• Unlike several other cancers, the survival rate for oral cancer has remained unchanged for decades
• The overall 5-year survival rate for oral cancer is 52%, but when discovered early, it increases to 80% – 90%
• Unfortunately, only 35% of oral cancer cases are diagnosed in the early stages.

It’s kind of sad to see that while other cancer survival rates have greatly increased, oral cancer survival rates have not improved nor has the early detection rate changed.  There is a newer device called the VELscope that can help dentists detect malignant and pre-malignant lesions in the mouth.  It’s basically a blue light with a special lens that the operator looks through.  There is no discomfort nor any special rinses the client needs to use.  It’s quick, easy and painless.  It’s cleared by the FDA to detect early lesions so we know it works.  Unfortunately most dentists do not have this device so if your dentist does have one, you can be assured they’re on the cutting edge of cancer detection.  Ask you dentist about it if they don’t have one.  I personally feel that every person should be examined with the VELscope once a year.  Our office just purchased one and we have started screening patients undergoing their soft tissue examinations by the hygienist during their cleaning appointments.  If you have cancer in your family, you may want to ask your dentist if they can get the VELscope or an alternative screening method to detect early cancer.
The Velscope procedure is available at our Southern California office in Riverside California, Contact Us for your screening appointment.