VELscope Oral Cancer Screening in Chicago, IL
VELscope Oral Cancer Screening System
More than 480,000 new cases of oral and throat cancers are diagnosed each year, and at least 35,000 of those are right here in the United States. Oral cancer kills one person every hour in the U.S., and without proper detection methods, a person may have oral cancer and not even know it.
In almost all cases of oral cancer, early detection plays a major role in a patient’s chances of survival. By diagnosing and treating oral cancer early, a patient’s five-year survival rate is 80 to 90% greater.
Risk factors for oral cancer include:
- Frequent use of tobacco products (cigarettes, cigars, pipes, chewing tobacco)
- Excessive consumption of alcohol
- Genetics (a family history of oral cancer or any type of cancer)
- Excessive exposure to the sun at a young age
Though men above the age of 50 are typically at the greatest risk for oral cancer, there has been a recent increase in the number of women diagnosed with it, due to a connection between oral cancer and the human papillomavirus (HPV-16).
How VELscope works
The VELscope screening system consists of a specialized white light source and viewing scope that make it easier for a doctor to look closely at the tissues inside your mouth. Normal tissues will almost glow a bright green color. Abnormal tissue shows up much darker under the special light.
An abnormal screening does not necessarily mean the patient has cancer. If an abnormal screening occurs, we may schedule a second scan later to see if the dark spots disappear, or choose to perform a gentle, non-invasive brush biopsy to make sure it’s not cancer.
Importance of Early Detection of Oral Cancer
Early detection of oral cancer significantly increases the chances of successful treatment and survival rates. Regular screenings using advanced technology like VELscope allow for the identification of abnormalities before they develop into more serious conditions.
Statistics show that when oral cancer is detected at an early stage, the five-year survival rate can be as high as 80-90%. This highlights the critical role of regular screenings in safeguarding oral health and underscores the necessity for patients to prioritize dental check-ups.
What to Expect During a VELscope Screening
During a VELscope screening, patients can expect a quick, non-invasive procedure that typically lasts only a few minutes. The dentist will use the VELscope device, which emits a blue light, to examine the tissues in the mouth and identify any areas of concern.
The process is painless and does not require any special preparation. After the examination, the dentist will discuss the findings with the patient and outline any necessary follow-up steps, ensuring that patients are informed and comfortable throughout the process.
Post-Screening Care and Follow-Up
After a VELscope screening, it is essential for patients to follow their dentist's recommendations for post-screening care. Depending on the results, additional tests or follow-up appointments may be necessary to monitor any areas of concern.
Patients should maintain regular dental visits and report any unusual symptoms, such as persistent sores or lumps, to their dentist promptly. This proactive approach helps ensure ongoing oral health and timely intervention if any issues arise.
Patient Testimonials on VELscope Experience
Many patients have shared positive experiences regarding their VELscope screenings, emphasizing the comfort and reassurance provided by the technology. Testimonials highlight how patients felt more informed and empowered about their oral health after undergoing the screening.
These firsthand accounts illustrate the value of VELscope in enhancing patient confidence and promoting proactive health management. By hearing from others, potential patients can better understand the benefits and importance of regular oral cancer screenings.
Importance of Early Detection of Oral Cancer
Early detection of oral cancer significantly increases the chances of successful treatment and survival rates. Regular screenings using advanced technology like VELscope allow for the identification of abnormalities before they develop into more serious conditions.
Statistics show that when oral cancer is detected at an early stage, the five-year survival rate can be as high as 80-90%. This highlights the critical role of regular screenings in safeguarding oral health and underscores the necessity for patients to prioritize dental check-ups.
What to Expect During a VELscope Screening
During a VELscope screening, patients can expect a quick, non-invasive procedure that typically lasts only a few minutes. The dentist will use the VELscope device, which emits a blue light, to examine the tissues in the mouth and identify any areas of concern.
The process is painless and does not require any special preparation. After the examination, the dentist will discuss the findings with the patient and outline any necessary follow-up steps, ensuring that patients are informed and comfortable throughout the process.
Post-Screening Care and Follow-Up
After a VELscope screening, it is essential for patients to follow their dentist's recommendations for post-screening care. Depending on the results, additional tests or follow-up appointments may be necessary to monitor any areas of concern.
Patients should maintain regular dental visits and report any unusual symptoms, such as persistent sores or lumps, to their dentist promptly. This proactive approach helps ensure ongoing oral health and timely intervention if any issues arise.
Patient Testimonials on VELscope Experience
Many patients have shared positive experiences regarding their VELscope screenings, emphasizing the comfort and reassurance provided by the technology. Testimonials highlight how patients felt more informed and empowered about their oral health after undergoing the screening.
These firsthand accounts illustrate the value of VELscope in enhancing patient confidence and promoting proactive health management. By hearing from others, potential patients can better understand the benefits and importance of regular oral cancer screenings.
