When most people think about what happens during a dental checkup, oral cancer screening may not be top of mind — but it’s a routine and important part of comprehensive dental care. Early detection significantly improves outcomes for oral cancer, and technology like VELscope has given dentists an additional tool to help identify abnormalities that might not be visible to the naked eye.
Why Oral Cancer Screenings Matter
Oral cancer can develop in areas like the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, and throat. In its early stages, it often doesn’t cause pain, which means it can go unnoticed without a thorough screening. Because early detection is closely linked to more effective treatment, routine screenings during dental visits play an important role in catching potential issues sooner rather than later.
What a Traditional Visual and Tactile Exam Involves
A standard oral cancer screening involves your dentist visually examining the soft tissues of your mouth — including the tongue, cheeks, gums, and the floor and roof of the mouth — and gently feeling for any unusual lumps or texture changes. This exam looks for things like sores that haven’t healed, white or red patches, lumps, or areas of unusual texture.
What Is VELscope, and How Does It Help?
VELscope is a handheld device that uses a special light to help highlight tissue abnormalities that may not be easily visible under normal lighting. Healthy tissue and abnormal tissue can fluoresce differently under this light, which can help draw attention to areas that warrant a closer look.
It’s important to understand that VELscope is a screening aid, not a diagnostic tool on its own — if an area of concern is identified, further evaluation, which may include a biopsy, would be needed to determine what’s actually going on. Think of it as an additional layer of information that complements, rather than replaces, a thorough visual and tactile exam.
Who Should Get Screened?
Oral cancer screenings are generally recommended as part of routine dental visits for all adult patients, though certain risk factors — including tobacco use, heavy alcohol use, and HPV exposure — may make screenings even more important. Because screenings are quick, non-invasive, and can be incorporated into a routine visit, there’s little downside to including them as part of regular care.
What Happens If Something Unusual Is Found
If your dentist identifies an area that warrants further attention, the most common next step is monitoring it over a short period to see if it changes, or referring you for further evaluation, such as a biopsy. It’s worth emphasizing that most findings during routine screenings turn out to be benign — the goal of screening is simply to catch the rare cases that need attention as early as possible.
Conclusion
Oral cancer screenings are a quick, painless part of routine dental care that can make a meaningful difference if something unusual is ever identified. Tools like VELscope add an extra layer of information to support a thorough exam, helping our team provide the most comprehensive care possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an oral cancer screening painful?
No — the screening involves a visual exam and gentle feeling of the soft tissues, and the VELscope device simply involves shining a light, with no discomfort involved.
How often should I get screened for oral cancer?
Oral cancer screenings are typically included as part of routine dental checkups, so most patients are screened every six months along with their regular visit.
Does VELscope diagnose oral cancer?
No — VELscope is a screening aid that helps highlight areas worth a closer look. Any areas of concern would need further evaluation, such as a biopsy, for an actual diagnosis.
What are some risk factors for oral cancer?
Tobacco use, heavy alcohol consumption, and HPV exposure are among the factors associated with increased risk, though oral cancer can occur in patients without these risk factors as well.
What happens if something unusual is found during my screening?
Your dentist may recommend monitoring the area over time or referring you for further evaluation, depending on what’s observed. Most findings turn out to be benign.
Comprehensive Screenings at Love Dentistry
Dr. William Fong and our team include thorough oral cancer screenings as part of routine care, using tools like VELscope to support a comprehensive exam.
Call (360) 623-7318 or request an appointment with our Bellingham, WA team.