New technology aids in detection, prevention of oral cancer due to HPV and other risk factors
Unlike a traditional oral exam, the Velscope exam enables dentists to locate tissue abnormalities before they become visible to the naked eye.
By Roger Tran, DDS
Public awareness of the human papillomavirus, or HPV, has increased significantly in recent years thanks to a combination of new research and revamped screening protocols to help prevent the spread of the sexually transmitted disease and subsequent risk for cervical cancer. However, in addition to cervical cancers, researchers are now finding an increased prevalence of oral cancers as a direct result of exposure to HPV; and in order to promote earlier detection and treatment, many dentists are now implementing advanced oral cancer screening procedures of their own to catch and treat pre-cancerous developments of the mouth and throat.
According to data from the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, men and women who are exposed to cancer-causing strains of HPV via oral sex are at an increased risk for cancers of the throat, tongue, lip and mouth. These cancers can be hard to detect without close attention and frequent assessment from both patients and medical professionals; and because many at-risk patients are otherwise healthy young people who don’t fit the usual demographic for such cancers, dentists are among the few doctors likely to catch pre-cancerous lesions and related symptoms in time for effective treatment and recovery.
Velscope technology advances early detection for proactive dentists
Traditional oral cancer screenings involve a visual and tactile test for signs and symptoms including following:
- Persistent lesions or sores in the mouth
- Thickening of soft mouth tissue
- White or red patches in the mouth
Without other testing agents, dentists and patients are forced to wait for these and other symptoms (such as ear or jaw pain, difficulty swallowing or chewing, a lump in the neck or sensation of something caught in the throat) before taking action. But now, a new preventative detection aid called Velscope is making it possible for dental professionals to take a proactive approach against oral cancer – and make a non-invasive investigation of oral tissues to detect abnormalities before they appear for swifter treatment and recovery.
At A+ Family Dentistry, we pride ourselves on being at the forefront of preventative medical technology; and we are delighted to offer Velscope screenings to our patients. The Velscope uses a blue light to agitate oral tissues, creating a contrast in color between normal tissues and those that are growing abnormally deep beneath the surface. Quick, safe and efficient, and effective without the use of rinses or dyes, the Velscope takes the fight against oral cancer to the next level. To learn more or schedule an appointment for a Velscope screening, contact us at our Poway dental office or visit us online at www.aplusfamilydentistry.com
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Posted by Social Media Staff
on Jan 9 2012. Filed under Columns, Roger Tran, DDS, Sponsored Columns.
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