Today’s dentists have training in multiple areas. Not only can they perform general, cosmetic, restorative, and endodontic procedures, but they can also assist patients with their oral health in other ways. In particular, modern technology has given dentists a unique tool to use in the search for abnormal tissues within the oral cavity. This device is known as the VELscope, and it is available in the comfort of a dentist’s office. VELscope detects cancer early in the mouths of dental patients who visit dentists with the proper equipment and training.
VELscope Detects Cancer Early: the Examination
Three words that can be used to describe the examination include quick, painless, and effective. Taking only a few moments, VELscope detects cancer early on its development, providing the patient with plenty of time for treatment by a medical professional. Before you begin the process, you will receive eyewear designed to protect your retinas against the light that is used. You will also need to rinse your mouth with a special solution. Your dentist will hold the hand-held device near your open mouth in order to shine a specialized blue light into it. If VELscope detects cancer early enough, your recovery has a better chance of success.
VELscope Detects Cancer Early, So Now What?
If your dentist discovers abnormal mucosal tissues in your oral cavity, a biopsy is usually taken to identify the cells. In some cases where the results are questionable, you might simply be scheduled for a second oral cancer screening. Although VELscope detects cancer early, it can only do so if the patient comes into the office for the examination. It is important to come in for this next visit, because VELscope detects cancer early enough to give you a good opportunity to recover from it.
VELscope Detects Cancer Early and Other Mucosal Abnormalities
Scientific studies have shown that VELscope detects cancer early, while also having the ability to point out other mucosal abnormalities that can affect oral health. In particular, the following problems have been identified as being within VELscope’s capabilities of observation: bacterial infections, fungal infections, viral infections, lichen planus, lichenoid reactions, inflammatory lesions, salivary gland tumors, and squamous papillomas.
