Oral Cancer Isn’t Just for Smokers

It is important to note that oral cancer can go undetected in its earliest stages, mainly because it is painless and does not appear much different from your regular tissue and mouth structures. Oral cancer can also mimic common intraoral changes such as a cheek bite or canker sore. A dental professional like those at Hawley Lane Dental here in Stratford, CT will evaluate any changes he or she may see in your mouth including:

• White patches on the inside of the mouth (leukoplakia)

• Mixture of red and white patches inside the mouth (erythroleukoplakia)

• Brightly colored red patches inside the mouth (erythroplakia)

• A scab or ulcer that won’t heal

• Bleeding in the mouth

• Swallowing difficulties, persistent hoarseness

• Swelling in your mouth, neck or throat

The biggest risk factor for developing oral cancer has traditionally been smoking. However, recent statistics indicate oral cancer in non-smokers is the fastest-growing category. Aside from smoking, other factors that lead to oral cancer are:

• Sun exposure (cancer of the lip)

• Smokeless tobacco users

• Alcohol use

• Combined use of alcohol and tobacco together

• Exposure to HPV-16 (human papilloma virus version 16)

VELscope ® is the only tool cleared by the FDA to aid the detection of oral lesions that the naked eye may not be able to see or differentiate. It is a safe blue light that is shone into the oral cavity. Normal tissue appears with a green hue while abnormal tissue appears dark. It is quick, easy, and painless.

Since dental benefits vary among providers, it is important to check to see if any types of oral cancer screenings such as the VELscope are covered. If not, the cost for a VELscope® exam in our office is $34, which is a very small price to pay.