VIZILITE® PLUS ORAL CANCER SCREENING

 

ABOUT ORAL CANCER

Oral cancer may be one of the least discussed cancers, but the facts are worth talking about: Research shows that more than 30,000 Americans will be diagnosed with oral cancer every year. And contrary to popular belief, about 25 percent of those diagnosed are not tobacco users. The mortality rate for oral cancer is higher than many types of cancers, including Hodgkin’s disease, cervical cancer, ovarian cancer and cancer of the brain. Fortunately, some oral cancer statistics are encouraging. When caught early, oral cancer is one of the most treatable diseases – in fact, with early treatment there is a 90 percent success rate! At Meadowglen Dental Care, we utilize light technology like Vizilite® Plus makes early detection of oral cancer fast, easy and pain-free. Vizilite Plus is an oral cancer detection system that identifies soft tissue abnormalities that may eventually turn into oral cancer. With the help of Vizilite Plus, your dentist can “see” abnormal tissues that aren’t visible to the naked eye.

THE VIZILITE PLUS EXAM

It’s understandable if the thought of an oral cancer exam makes you nervous. But before you let fear talk you out of getting checked for oral cancer, keep in mind that a Vizilite Plus exam is painless and fast! Typically, your Vizilite Plus oral cancer screening is combined with a regular dental exam, performed just after your dentist completes a visual examination of your mouth. As the ViziLite Plus light passes over your mouth, healthy tissues appear dark and problem areas white under this specialized light technology.

WHY SHOULD YOU GET ONE?

As previously mentioned, oral cancer can be fatal; especially when discovered late in its development. But early detection can be the key that saves lives. When detected in its early stages, oral cancer can be treated more easily, quickly and economically. The only way to stay ahead of oral cancer is to have an oral cancer screening at least once a year. This is especially important for at-risk patients – anyone 18 or older and tobacco users of any age. An oral cancer screening doesn’t have to be a separate or special appointment. In fact, it’s usually combined with your regular dental exam — all the more reason to visit our office here in Whitby, ON, regularly!