Oral Cancer & VELscope

We use modern technology to prevent this deadly disease.

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:

  • Smokers
  • Those who heavily consume alcohol
  • Users of chewing tobacco
  • Over age 40
  • Exposure to certain viruses (HPV-16), such as through sexual contact

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 your 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 office for an evaluation.

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VELscope machine

What Is VELscope®?

A way to detect what is often missed.

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.

Let's Get Started
Welcome to Hawley Lane Dental.
  • Monday - 9:00am–5:00pm
  • Tuesday - 8:00am–5:00pm
  • Wednesday - 8:00am–5:00pm
  • Thursday - 8:00am–5:00pm
  • Friday - 8:00am–5:00pm
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