247 Eramosa Rd Unit 1 & 2, Guelph, ON N1E 2M5, Canada

VELscope Oral Cancer Screening

Visually Enhanced Lesion Scope (VELscope) is an FDA-approved, non-invasive, easy-to-use, and very effective tool in the early detection of oral cancer. This advanced diagnostic device helps to find any precancerous patches or lesions in the mouth at the earliest. Along with conventional methods, this technology serves as a helping hand, with a better detection rate in oral cancer screening.

Oral cancer has a high morbidity and mortality rate, especially in areas where there is very limited access to early diagnosis and appropriate treatment. A delayed diagnosis can lead to a reduced survival rate, whereas an early diagnosis can help in making the prognosis better.

Our dentists at Magnolia Dental Guelph are very well equipped with this new technology, which is VELscope, for oral cancer screening. Our dentists encourage everyone to participate in these oral cancer screening tests in Guelph so as to detect any changes occurring in the oral tissues, especially for people who have any habits or any genetic predisposing history towards oral cancer.

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What Is VELscope Oral Cancer Screening?

Oral cancer typically presents itself in its earliest stages as minor changes in the oral tissues. These are not easily visible to the naked eye. VELscope is a simple device based on advanced fluorescent technology that uses LED light to detect any signs of oral cancer changes. This non-invasive and effective device is extensively used at Magnolia Dental Guelph for early oral cancer screening, helping to prevent the detrimental effects of oral cancer. These oral cancer screenings at Magnolia Dental are routine and painless, and are available to all individuals residing in Guelph and the surrounding areas.

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How VELscope Technology Works

VELscope technology works on fluorescence technology, that is, it uses a safe blue light which is projected on the oral tissues, including gums, tongue, cheeks, palate, and throat area. This blue light when absorbed by the oral tissues, naturally fluoresces; healthy tissues appear green in colour compared to abnormal tissues, which appear dark. This is due to the change in cellular activity of the tissues and can be considered suspicious for precancerous lesions.

Why Early Oral Cancer Detection Matters

Oral cancer is usually an aggressive form of cancer with a high mortality rate. Oral cancer screening is one of the most efficient ways in early detection of oral cancer in Guelph. A timely intervention reduces the mortality rate by at least 5 times and also reduces the morbidity associated with it. Oral cancer is multifactorial, and it is very difficult to isolate a single cause for it. It affects oral functions such as chewing food, leading to malnutrition, as well as speech, taste, and facial appearance. Early action towards oral cancer requires less invasive treatment, resulting in better recovery outcomes. Having proactive dental care is one of the smart ways towards oral cancer prevention.

Benefits of VELscope Oral Cancer Screening

VELscope oral cancer screening in Guelph has multiple benefits to it:

  • It helps in early detection of oral cancer, leading to higher cure rates and better survival outcomes.
  • The procedure is painless and non-invasive, thus a very easy and comfortable process.
  • It provides a highly accurate visualization of oral tissues.
  • It is a quick screening process, taking only 2 minutes to complete.
  • It allows a comprehensive assessment by detecting pre-cancerous changes.

Step-by-Step VELscope Screening Process

Preventive dental checkup at Magnolia dental Guelph undergoes following steps for oral cancer examination:

  • Visual oral exam: This involves a visual exam of all the areas, including gums, palate, tongue, cheeks, and throat, for any suspicious lesions.
  • VELscope light examination: VELscope is a small hand-held device that has a disposable protective end cap through which blue light is projected. For examination purposes, the surrounding light is dimmed, the patient and dentist both wear protective glasses and then sequentially all the areas are observed under blue light.
  • Image capture: VELscope has a camera attachment to the device so whenever a dentist finds any suspicious area, a photographic documentation can be done for further evaluation and biopsy study.
  • Professional evaluation by a dentist: Professional evaluation involves visual examination and palpation of the tissues. VELScope acts as an aid in this screening process.
  • Referral or follow-up if necessary

Who Should Consider VELscope Screening?

Preventive oral screening is a very effective way of getting ahead of the problem. This is important especially who are at risk of developing oral cancer such as adults over 18 who are tobacco or alcohol users, have a family history of cancer and who develop persistent sores, lumps, or discoloration. Dental checkup in Guelph by Magnolia dental is a preemptive approach in helping those who have oral cancer risk factors as well as patients wanting proactive oral health care.

Why Choose Magnolia Dental Guelph for VELscope Screening

Magnolia Dental Guelph has a trusted group of dentists who use modern dental technology such as VELscope to provide comprehensive oral cancer screening for the community in Guelph. Our experienced professionals believe in patient-centred care, where the core problems, risk factors, and lifestyles of patients are carefully considered. Hence, every patient is given a thorough and periodic oral examination. Using advanced technology like VELscope screening, we believe in clear communication and effective patient education.

Unlock Your Oral Health Potential: Book Your VELscope Assessment Today!

Be at peace of mind with one simple oral screening. Protect your oral health with VELscope screening today!

Book an appointment Call Us: 519-900-5366

faq

Frequently Asked Questions

It is a screening of oral tissues for any precancerous changes using an LED based device called a VELscope.

No, it’s a non-invasive and painless method of screening.

Oral cancer is very aggressive and has a high mortality rate. Early detection helps in timely intervention thus resulting in better survival rate and outcome.

It takes less than 2 minutes for VELscope screening.

People who are at high risk such as adults over 18 who are tobacco or alcohol users, have family history of cancer and who develop persistent sores, lumps, or discoloration.

There are no side effects of VELscope as it is a simple visual screening.

Cancer screenings are usually covered by insurance. However, if not, we can discuss the best options for you.