VELscope® Oral Cancer Screening
Early Detection with VELscope Oral Cancer Screening
Non-invasive, advanced technology for identifying oral health concerns early.
Oral cancer can be life-threatening, but when it is caught at the earliest stages, it is often treatable with a simple surgery. The dental team at Burloak Centre Dentistry offers oral cancer screenings using VELscope as part of your routine checkup so we can detect cancerous cells as soon as possible.
Signs and risk factors for oral cancer
Oral cancer describes a wide range of cancers in the mouth, throat, or jaw. Patients with oral cancer may have wounds on the lips or in the mouth that do not heal, white or red lesions, loose teeth, ear or mouth pain, and difficulty swallowing. However, many of the early signs of oral cancer can go undetected without regular screening.
Risk factors for oral cancer include smoking and other tobacco products, alcohol consumption, HPV, sun exposure, and genetic factors. Patients who have developed oral cancer previously are also at a heightened risk. While most oral cancers are diagnosed in patients over 50, more and more cases are found in younger patients, and there has been a significant increase in cases without traditional risk factors. Routine screenings, even at a young age, are crucial for protecting your health.
Benefits of VELscope
Oral cancer screenings can be easily completed during your routine hygiene visits. VELscope screenings take as little as two minutes to complete, and they significantly improve the dentist’s ability to detect abnormalities in the soft tissues of your mouth. This handheld device uses fluorescent light to excite the tissues in your mouth, highlighting abnormal tissues for easy detection. When combined with a traditional manual exam, your dentist can detect malignant cells before they have had the chance to spread to other parts of your body, making treatment much easier.
If your dentist detects something unusual, it is not always a cause for worry. They may recommend a biopsy or continue to monitor the area with symptoms. If we do find evidence of oral cancer, we will help you work with your health care provider to get prompt treatment.
Summary
Early detection is key to protecting your oral health. At Burloak Centre Dentistry, our VELscope® oral cancer screening provides a quick, safe, and non-invasive way to identify abnormalities that may not be visible during a standard exam. By incorporating this advanced technology into your routine visits, we help ensure any concerns are caught early, giving you peace of mind and the best chance for effective treatment.
Protect your smile and your health — call us today at 416‑639‑2546 to schedule your VELscope® screening.
Questions & Answers
Understanding the importance of early detection can be empowering. Here are some common questions about VELscope screenings to help you feel informed and confident in your care.
VELscope® is a handheld device that uses fluorescence visualization to enhance the detection of oral mucosal abnormalities, including potential signs of oral cancer.
During your dental exam, we shine a special blue light into your mouth. Healthy tissues will fluoresce a bright green, while abnormal tissues will appear darker, helping us identify areas that may require further evaluation.
Yes, the VELscope® screening is completely safe. It is non-invasive, painless, and does not require any dyes or rinses.
The VELscope® screening is quick and typically takes less than two minutes to complete as part of your routine dental exam.
Early detection of oral abnormalities can significantly improve treatment outcomes. Identifying potential issues early allows for more effective and less invasive treatments, contributing to better overall health.
Discover What’s Next
Oral cancer can be life-threatening, but when it is caught at the earliest stages, it is often treatable with a simple surgery.
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Burloak Centre Dentistry blends modern technology with experienced hands to ensure every visit supports your health and confidence. Contact us today to start your journey toward a healthier, more confident smile.
General Inquiries and Bookings: (905) 581-4436
Email Inquiries: info@burloakcentredentistry.com
Burloak Centre Dentistry
3527 Wyecroft Rd Unit K1B,
Oakville, ON L6L0B6
Clinic Hours:
Mon-Wed: 9:00AM–8:00PM
Thursday: 10:00AM–05:00PM
Friday: 9:00AM–03:00PM
Saturday: 9:00AM–03:00PM
Sunday: Closed