VELscope Oral Cancer Screening

We care... And we can help!

At Applegate Dentistry we use a state-of-the-art device called the VELscope Oral Cancer Screening System. Along with our conventional oral cancer screening exam (which includes looking inside your mouth for any lesions that might be visible to the naked eye and feeling your neck for any suspicious bumps), we use the VELscope to literally see beneath the surface where potentially dangerous growths could exist that we might have otherwise missed.

The VELscope Exam

The VELscope exam takes about two minutes as part of a regular hygiene check-up, involves no pain or inconvenience, and is completely safe. We think you will find the additional cost for this exam to be very reasonable, and it might be that the cost will be covered by your insurance company.

We think you'll appreciate the peace-of-mind this screening will provide. 

What if we find something?

In most cases, the VELscope exam will indicate that there is nothing to worry about.  However, it is of course possible that some suspicious areas could be revealed. In that case, it could very well be that the suspicious-looking area is of little or no concern, such as if it is caused by chewing the inside of your cheek or by irritation from dentures or braces. If necessary, we may ask you to come back in a few weeks so that we may take another look.

If the area has improved in the meantime, we'll know that oral cancer was not involved. If the area has not improved, we will recommend further exams, which may include a biopsy that can be evaluated by an oral pathologist. In the unlikely event that the biopsy reveals cancerous or pre-cancerous tissues, you will be referred for appropriate treatment. 

The Advantage of Early Detection

Fortunately, the survival rate for oral cancer discovered at early stages is extremely high. That is why it is so important that you have an oral cancer screening once a year, or twice a year if you smoke or chew tobacco. And it's also why we have invested in this new technology.

Looking for an excellent cosmetic and general dentist in Covington, KY or the greater Cincinnati area? Call us now! 859-291-8600