Oral Cancer

Approximately 36,540 Americans will be diagnosed with cancer of the oral cavity and pharynx in 2010. During the same time period 7,880 Americans will die of oral cancer.* One of the most important tasks is to help identify areas that might, if not identified and treated, progress to oral cancer. The statistics below, from the National Cancer Institute’s SEER Database, 1999-2006, are a compelling argument for regular oral cancer exams:

• Found early, while still Localized (confined to the primary site), oral cancer’s five-year survival rate is good: about 83%. Only 33% of all oral cancer discoveries fall into this category.
• Found while Regional (progressed to regional lymph nodes) the five-year survival rate drops significantly, to about 55%. Approximately 46% of all oral cancer discoveries are Regional.
• Found late, oral cancer’s five-year survival rate is poor: approximately 32%. This accounts for approximately 14% of all oral cancer findings.

Clearly, finding oral cancer in its early stages is key to survival.

Introducing the Velscope Vx

We at Dentists for Veterans care not only about your teeth, but also your overall health. For our patients we always use the latest technologies and innovations in dentistry to help our guests with not only their smile but their health. That is why we have adopted the Velscope Vx in our program.

Why Velscope:

The VELscope system helps us visualize abnormalities in the mucosal tissues of your lips, mouth and upper throat. In just two minutes, with no rinses, stains or discomfort, a VELscope examination lets us improve their assessment of your overall oral health. Make sure that your mouth is as healthy as it can possibly be. The next time we visit you, ask for a VELscope exam. For more information, please also check out the Dr. Oz Show which discussed oral cancer and using the Velscope to help identify it early.