What is oral cancer?
Oral cancer is a cancer that can affect several parts of your mouth, including the tongue, lips, floor of the mouth, cheeks, soft and hard palate, throat (pharynx), or sinuses. When caught in the early stages, oral cancer is fairly treatable, and the survival rate is 80% or higher. However, if oral cancer is not detected until it has progressed into a more advanced stage, it can be life threatening; the 5-year survival rate for patients with oral cancer discovered in the late stages is only 22%. In order to help you stay in the best of health, we provide a thorough screening for oral cancer in Ann Arbor, Michigan, during each exam at White Pearl Dentistry.
What is the VELscope® oral cancer screening device?
The VELscope is an oral cancer screening device that allows us to quickly and easily provide a thorough, advanced screening for oral cancer. It is the only FDA-approved cancer screening, and it involves no radiation or side effects. The VELscope works by using a safe blue light, which allows our knowledgeable dentist to detect changes in cells that cannot be seen with the unaided eye. We can then identify abnormal or potentially cancerous areas and ensure that you receive the care you need.
We welcome you to call or visit us today to learn more about oral cancer screening and to schedule your next appointment with Dr. Nadia Hamouda.