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.