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Vizilite Cancer Screening

Research shows that more than 30,000 Americans will be diagnosed with oral cancer every year. And contrary to popular belief, about 25 percent of those diagnosed are not tobacco users. The mortality rate for oral cancer is higher than many types of cancers.

Fortunately, when caught early, oral cancer is one of the most treatable diseases – in fact, with early treatment, there is a 90 percent success rate!

The use of new light technology like Vizilite makes early detection of oral cancer fast, easy, and pain-free.

The Vizilite exam

 

Vizilite is an oral cancer detection system that identifies soft tissue abnormalities that may eventually turn into oral cancer. With the help of Vizilite, we can “see” abnormal tissues that aren’t visible to the naked eye.

It’s understandable if the thought of an oral cancer exam makes you nervous. But before you let fear talk you out of getting checked for oral cancer, keep in mind that a Vizilite exam is painless and fast!

Typically, your Vizilite oral cancer screening is combined with a regular dental exam, performed just after your dentist completes a visual examination of your mouth.

Here’s what to expect from your Vizilite oral cancer screening:

  • You’ll rinse your mouth with a cleansing solution
  • We will dim the overhead lighting
  • Using ViziLite we dentist will look for abnormal tissue

As the ViziLite light passes over your mouth, healthy tissues appear dark and problem areas white under this specialized light technology.

Is a positive reading negative?

 

If you receive a positive reading for abnormal tissue after your oral cancer screening, keep in mind that it’s not necessarily an indication of oral cancer.

Vizilite identifies both serious and benign abnormalities. That means a positive reading could signal tissue that’s been damaged from things as harmless as cheek bites or food irritations. So try not to get too worked up, but rely on your dentist’s prognosis. We will review the results and decide on the next steps – whether that means an additional evaluation to rule out benign causes or a visit to a specialist for a final answer.

In the interim, avoid tobacco, alcohol, and foods that irritate the mouth (nuts, hard candies) until your next exam.

Why you should get one?

 

As previously mentioned, oral cancer can be fatal; especially when discovered late in its development. But early detection can be the key that saving lives. When detected in its early stages, oral cancer can be treated more easily, quickly, and economically.

The only way to stay ahead of oral cancer is to have an oral cancer screening at least once a year. This is especially important for at-risk patients – anyone 18 or older and tobacco users of any age. An oral cancer screening doesn’t have to be a separate or special appointment. In fact, it’s usually combined with your regular dental exam — all the more reason to visit your dentist regularly!

Oral cancer symptoms

 

The symptoms of mouth cancer produce are oftentimes visible to the naked eye, appearing as a sore or ulcer that doesn’t go away after a couple of weeks. Other symptoms of mouth cancer include:

  • White or red patches anywhere in the mouth
  • Lumps on the lip, tongue, throat, or the neck
  • Difficulty chewing or swallowing
  • A feeling that something’s caught in the throat
  • Bleeding or numbness of the mouth
  • Persistent sore throat

Additionally, those who wear dentures may notice their dentures starting to fit loosely. Others may notice their voice changing. If any of these symptoms of mouth cancer persist for more than two weeks, see us as soon as possible.

HIGHLIGHTS

 

  • Vizilite technology makes early detection of oral cancer fast, easy, and pain-free.
  • Don’t take a chance: More than 30,000 Americans are diagnosed with oral cancer every year. When caught early, oral cancer is one of the most treatable diseases with a 90% success rate. Take the test!
  • For those patients that suffer from dental anxiety, we offer Conscious Sedation to help you feel more relaxed during treatment.

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