Early Detection Saves Lives: The Importance of Oral Cancer Screenings
At River Run Dental, your overall health is just as important to us as your smile. That’s why we offer complimentary VELscope® oral cancer screenings for every patient during their first visit and recommend them annually as part of your routine dental care. This is a service that very few dental practices offer, and it has allowed us to detect oral cancer early in patients — helping them seek treatment that has led to successful outcomes and remission.
What Is a VELscope® Screening?
VELscope® is an advanced, handheld device that uses special light (autofluorescence) to detect abnormal tissue changes in the mouth. Some changes in oral tissue aren’t visible to the naked eye, but VELscope® can highlight areas that may need further attention, allowing for earlier detection of oral cancers and precancers.
What to Expect During Your Screening
Your VELscope® screening is simple, quick, and completely painless:
- Your dentist or hygienist will turn out the lights and have you open your mouth while a special light shines over your oral tissues.
- Healthy tissue glows under the light, while areas of concern appear darker or differently colored.
- Any suspicious findings are discussed with you immediately, and if needed, you’ll be referred for further evaluation by a specialist.
The entire process typically takes just a few minutes and is integrated into your routine hygiene visit — there’s no separate appointment needed.
Why It Matters
A recent study published in the Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology found that VELscope®:
- Correctly identified 90.47% of high-risk oral lesions (sensitivity)
- Provided valuable additional information when combined with traditional oral exams (PMC8859611)
Early detection is crucial because oral cancer caught in its initial stages has a significantly higher chance of successful treatment and remission.
Our Commitment to You
At River Run Dental, we are proud to go beyond the standard dental check-up to offer state-of-the-art screenings that can make a real difference in your health. Our goal is to provide care that protects not just your smile, but your overall well-being.
Schedule Your Routine Appointment
Your annual hygiene visit is the perfect time for your VELscope® screening. If it’s been a while since your last visit or you’d like to learn more about this screening, reach out to our team today — we’re here to answer your questions and ensure your health is protected.
