|
Q. What If We Find Something?
In most cases, the VELscope exam will indicate
that there is nothing to worry about. However, it is of
course possible that some suspicious areas could be revealed.
In that case, it could very well be that the
suspicious-looking area is of little or no concern, such as if
it is caused by chewing the inside of your cheek or by
irritation from dentures or braces. If necessary, we may ask
you to come back in a few weeks so that we may take another
look. If the area has improved in the meantime, we’ll
know that oral cancer was not involved. If the area has not
improved, we will recommend further exams, which may include a
biopsy that can be evaluated by an oral pathologist. In the
unlikely event that the biopsy reveals cancerous or
precancerous tissues, you will be referred for appropriate
treatment. Fortunately, the survival rate for oral
cancer discovered at early stages is extremely high.
That is why it is so important that you have an oral cancer
screening once a year, or twice a year if you smoke or chew
tobacco. And it’s also why we have invested in this
new technology.
Questions?
If you have any questions about oral cancer or the VELscope
exam, please let us know. Your oral health is the key to
your overall health, and we want to help you in any way we
can.
|
Center for Cosmetic Dentistry
