Oral Cancer Screening & VELscope
Who Is at Risk for Oral Cancer?
One person dies every hour from oral cancer in America. More than 34,000 Americans will be diagnosed with oral or pharyngeal cancer this year.
The five-year survival rate for oral cancer is only 50%. This is largely due to its difficulty in detection. Oral cancer … Click to open this link in the same window … is often not detected until its later metastatic stages. However, if found and treated at an early stage, oral cancer has a 90% survival rate.
The main people at risk are:
Your dentist or dental hygienist will examine your head, neck, and mouth at every check-up to look for changes that may be cancerous.
If you notice any sore or spot in your mouth which does not seem to heal within 10-14 days or if you feel you are at risk, be sure to contact our dental office near you for an evaluation.
Why Oral Cancer Screening is Essential for Every Dental Patient
The Importance of Oral Cancer Screenings
Oral cancer is often associated with heavy smoking or drinking, but recent trends show that even younger, non-smoking patients are at risk. At Hawley Lane Dental, we’ve noticed an increase in oral cancer cases, particularly in patients with no history of tobacco use. The cause? Many cases can now be linked to HPV, which can lead to cancers in the mouth and throat much like it does for other areas, such as cervical cancer. This shift highlights the importance of screening every patient for signs of oral cancer, regardless of age or lifestyle.
Recognizing Early Signs of Oral Cancer
Detecting oral cancer early is crucial to improving patient outcomes, but symptoms can be subtle and are often overlooked. Our approach focuses on identifying persistent signs that don’t heal on their own, as typical sores and spots in the mouth should naturally clear up. Key symptoms we look for include:
- Canker sores that linger for weeks or months: These are often the first red flag for something more serious.
- White patches in the mouth: Small, white spots that don’t fade may indicate abnormal cell growth.
- Unusual lumps or growths: These can appear on the tongue, inner cheeks, or gums and may be painless, making them easy to ignore.
Patients are often unaware of these symptoms, especially if they aren’t in visible areas. That’s why we perform thorough screenings, which include moving the tongue to inspect all areas of the mouth and throat, checking under the tongue, and examining the back of the throat.
Our Oral Cancer Screening Process
During an oral cancer screening, we don’t rely on tests alone; instead, we focus on a detailed visual and tactile examination. For new patients, we establish a baseline to compare future changes in their oral health. For returning patients, we consistently check for any signs of change that may indicate a risk. Here’s a closer look at what we do during a screening:
- Visual Examination: We inspect the mouth’s soft tissues, looking for any abnormal spots, sores, or lumps. These often appear as small white spots or irregular bumps that can go unnoticed.
- Palpation: We feel for any unusual growths or hardened areas that could indicate a deeper issue.
- Patient History and Follow-Up: If we notice something concerning, we don’t jump to conclusions. Instead, we schedule a follow-up appointment within a few weeks at our Stratford, CT dental office. If the area hasn’t healed by then, we may refer the patient to a specialist for a biopsy.
How HPV is Changing the Landscape of Oral Cancer Risk
The link between HPV and oral cancer has become increasingly clear, with more cases appearing in younger, otherwise healthy patients. This has shifted our approach to screenings, as we now focus not just on high-risk patients but on everyone. Oral cancer can affect any part of the mouth or throat, so even patients who have never smoked may still be at risk. HPV-related oral cancers often develop at the back of the throat or base of the tongue, areas that can be hard to self-monitor. As part of our screening, we ensure these areas are thoroughly examined, especially if patients report symptoms like a sore throat or difficulty swallowing.
Why Routine Oral Cancer Screenings Make a Difference
One of the biggest challenges in oral cancer treatment is that symptoms may not be noticeable until the disease has progressed. By screening every patient routinely, we increase the likelihood of catching early signs when they’re most treatable. This proactive approach benefits our patients by:
Next Steps if a Concerning Spot is Detected
At Hawley Lane Dental, if we find a spot or lesion that seems suspicious or doesn’t heal, we refer patients to a specialist for further evaluation. Depending on the location, this might be an oral surgeon or an ENT specialist. Our practice maintains strong relationships with trusted specialists, so we ensure patients are seen promptly if further investigation is necessary.
The Importance of Patient Education and Prevention
Aside from screening, patient education plays a vital role in prevention. Many patients aren’t aware of the signs of oral cancer, especially those who are younger or don’t smoke. We take time to discuss the importance of regular oral exams, HPV vaccination for prevention, and avoiding known risk factors. By empowering our patients with information, we help them stay vigilant about their oral health and encourage lifestyle choices that can reduce their risks.
What Is VELscope®?
Our office utilizes the VELscope® to aid in the early detection of oral cancer. The VELscope® System is a revolutionary new technology that allows oral health care providers to easily detect abnormalities. It is the only device cleared by the FDA to help discover oral lesions that may not be seen by the naked eye.
A safe blue light is emitted into the oral cavity. Abnormal tissue typically appears as an irregular, dark area that stands out against the otherwise normal green of surrounding healthy tissue. It is quick, easy, and painless.
Oral cancer can affect anyone. Getting a VELscope® screening is essential to your overall health.
Contact Us to Book Your Oral Cancer Screening Today!
Your oral health is our priority. If you have questions about oral cancer prevention or would like to schedule an oral cancer screening, our team is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support you in making informed decisions for your health and well-being. Together, we can take proactive steps toward prevention and early detection.
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Monday - 9:00am–5:00pm
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Tuesday - 8:00am–5:00pm
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Wednesday - 8:00am–5:00pm
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Thursday - 8:00am–5:00pm
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Friday - 8:00am–5:00pm
