Why Every Westchester Dentist Should Screen For Oral Cancer
I am a strong patient advocate for early cancer screening and you should be too. At your next dental visit with a Westchester NY dentist, ask to be screened for oral cancer.
One of the most effective ways to detect early stages of oral cancer is through using the VELscope technology. The VELscope is a hand-held portable device that can detect changes in the mouth you can’t see with the naked eye.
Did You Know: I was actually the first doctor in Westchester County to ever use the VELscope device for HPV and Oral Cancer early detection. I was fortunate to use the prototype of the device in my capacity as associate professor of NYU College of Dentistry and became one of their Key Opinion Leaders.
In the dark, the blue light defines the borders of a cancerous lesion that would otherwise be invisible. The device can even find pre-cancerous changes called “dysplasias” before they become cancerous.
Everyone should be screened for oral cancer on a regular basis. The first line of defense is having your dentist screen for this. Unfortunately, less than 15% of patients visiting a dentist report having an oral cancer screening. If you find oral cancer early, there is a 90% survival rate. The problem is 66% of oral cancers are found stage 3 or 4.
Oral Cancer Screening Prevention Techniques
To protect yourself and your family take these simple suggestions:
- Ask your dentist for oral cancer mouth screening at least once a year.
- Ask your dentist if they use VELscope or similar device for detection.
- If any suspicious areas are found, have them evaluated with either a brush or excisional biopsy.
- Report any swellings or lumps in your mouth or throat and any chronic coughing.
While smokers and those who drink alcoholic beverages regularly or those with a past history of cancer are at a higher risk of oral cancer, recent studies have shown a relationship of oral cancer with Human Papilloma Virus. This is the virus that is significant in female cervical cancer. Alarmingly, 25% of newly diagnosed cases are appearing in younger adults and even teenagers.
Make sure to be screened at least once per year for oral cancer. A quick screen might be the lifesaver you need.
To be screened for oral cancer, schedule an appointment at Advanced Dentistry of Westchester today.
VELscope® Oral Cancer Screening | Dental Appointment in Harrison, NY
Are you concerned about your oral health? Do you want to ensure that your mouth is free of any potential risks? Our top Westchester County dental office is proud to offer state-of-the-art VELscope technology.
With VELscope, we can identify any abnormalities in your mouth that may indicate early stages of oral cancer. This non-invasive screening tool uses a special light to illuminate any suspicious areas in your mouth, highlighting potential concerns that may not be visible to the naked eye.
Early detection is key when it comes to oral cancer. With VELscope technology, we can catch any potential risks before they progress.
Our team of top Westchester County dentists will guide you through the screening process, ensuring that you are comfortable and informed every step of the way.
Don’t wait until it’s too late to take control of your oral health.
Schedule your VELscope oral cancer screening with a Harrison, New York dentist today and give yourself the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re taking proactive steps towards a healthy future.
Contact us now to book your appointment and take the first step towards a healthier you.
More Info
Contact Us
- Advanced Dentistry of Westchester
- Kenneth S. Magid, DDS, FICD
- Sabrina Magid-Katz, DMD
- 163 Halstead Ave. • Harrison, NY 10528
- (914) 835-0542