Are you in need of Atlanta oral cancer screening? Oral cancer is the sixth most commonly diagnosed cancer in the United States and has a five year survival rate of only 50%. Annually, over 50,000 Americans are affected with some form of this disease. If detected early with comprehensive dental care, the prognosis can be very encouraging. However, many people do not have the cancer screening that could save them from the devastation of oral cancer.
Risk factors of oral cancer include age, tobacco use, alcohol consumption, sun exposure, sexually transmitted viruses and diet. Oral cancer screening is provided during each complete oral exam. However, by the time oral cancer is detectable by a lesion in the mouth, it has progressed a good deal. Recent advances in dental technology have produced supplemental oral cancer screening devices that make in-office screenings more accurate.
We are pleased to offer our patients oral cancer screening with VELscope technology for a minimal charge. The VELscope screening is painless. There is no swishing with a vinegar-tasting solution and no irritating pricks. The VELscope uses a filtered UV light that indicates areas that may be precancerous, cancerous or benign. Studies have shown the VELscope can accurately and painlessly reveal tiny precancerous areas before they are clinically visible. If a suspicious area is noted, the proper follow-up procedures will be recommended.
The Importance of Screening
Oral cancers have some of the best results with early treatment. The problem is, less than a quarter of the population gets an annual screening for cancer. The screening is painless and does not take a long time. If a questionable area is found, it can be addressed and treated.
Lumps or nodules in or on the soft tissues of the mouth, head or neck could be indicative of a problem. Detection and examination of these anomalies in their earliest stages can be lifesaving. We recommend oral cancer screening for the oral health of all our patients.
If you have never been screened for oral cancer or you have any areas in your mouth that are suspicions or questionable, contact Aesthetic & Implant Dentistry of Atlanta today. Schedule an appointment for oral cancer screening. Why take chances with your health? Make your appointment today. It could be the appointment that saves your life.