A Visit to the Dentist Might Just Save Your Life
According to the American Cancer Society, in 2009, an estimated 35,720 new cases of oral cavity and oropharyngeal cancer will be diagnosed in the United Sates, causing approximately 7,600 deaths.
It is one of the few types of cancer that has not seen a significant reduction in incidence over the past 30 years, and recent research has shown a strong association with human papillomavirus (HPV), which can be sexually transmitted. For this reason, it is recommended that all individuals over the age of 18, or anyone who is sexually active, should have at least an annual comprehensive oral examination, and ideally at every dental hygiene visit.
Oran cancer is typically discovered in late stages, when the five-year survival rate is only 22%. However, if detected in the early stages the five-year survival rate is 80% or higher. VELscope powered by Sapphire can help discover abnormal growths before they become cancerous, even below the surface.
According to Dr. Michael A. Miyasaki of Bishou Dentistry, “We have always conducted an annual comprehensive oral cancer screening for all of our patients, but now VELscope powered by Sapphire will help us see things we might have missed previously. By detecting potential problems earlier, we will be providing our patients with the best health care currently available.”
The FDA and Health Canada recently cleared VELscope powered by Sapphire for assisting dentists and hygienists in discovering cancerous or precancerous growths that may not be apparent during routine visual examinations. A screening with VELscope powered by Sapphire adds only a few minutes to a conventional examination and gives dentists greater insight into the condition of the patient’s oral cavity. The process is completely free of any pain or discomfort and is affordably priced. In fact, an increasing number of insurance companies are covering the cost of the screening.
YOU SHOULD KNOW
How the VELscope® System Works
Shines safe blue light into oral cavity, causing tissue to fluoresce
from surface of epithelium to the basement membrane
(where pre-malignant changes normally start) to the stroma
beneath.
Patented optical filtering allows clinician to view the different
fluorescent signatures to help differentiate between
normal and abnormal tissue
-Abnormal tissue typically appears as an irregular, dark
area that stands out against the otherwise normal fluorescence
pattern of surrounding healthy tissue
For more information about VELscope powered by Sapphire, visit www.denmat.com, or call Dr. Miyasaki’s office at 702.823.5793 with any questions and to schedule a screening appointment.
Oran cancer is typically discovered in late stages, when the five-year survival rate is only 22%. However, if detected in the early stages the five-year survival rate is 80% or higher. VELscope powered by Sapphire can help discover abnormal growths before they become cancerous, even below the surface.
According to Dr. Michael A. Miyasaki of Bishou Dentistry, “We have always conducted an annual comprehensive oral cancer screening for all of our patients, but now VELscope powered by Sapphire will help us see things we might have missed previously. By detecting potential problems earlier, we will be providing our patients with the best health care currently available.”
The FDA and Health Canada recently cleared VELscope powered by Sapphire for assisting dentists and hygienists in discovering cancerous or precancerous growths that may not be apparent during routine visual examinations. A screening with VELscope powered by Sapphire adds only a few minutes to a conventional examination and gives dentists greater insight into the condition of the patient’s oral cavity. The process is completely free of any pain or discomfort and is affordably priced. In fact, an increasing number of insurance companies are covering the cost of the screening.
YOU SHOULD KNOW
- Oral Cancer often starts as a tiny, unnoticed white or red spot or sore in the mouth.
- It can affect the lips, gum tissue, check lining, tongue and the hard or soft palate.
- Oral Cancer most often occurs in those who use tobacco in any form.
- Prolonged exposure to the sun increases the risk of lip cancer.
- Oral cancers can occur in people who do not smoke and have no other known risk factors.
- Oral Cancer is more likely to strike after age 40.
- Other signs include:
- A sore that bleeds easily or does not heal
- A color change of the oral tissue
- A lump, thickening, rough spot, crust or small eroded area
- Pain, tenderness, or numbness anywhere in the mouth or on the lips
- Difficulty chewing, swallowing, speaking or moving the jaw or tongue
- A change in the way the teeth fit together
How the VELscope® System Works
Shines safe blue light into oral cavity, causing tissue to fluoresce
from surface of epithelium to the basement membrane
(where pre-malignant changes normally start) to the stroma
beneath.
Patented optical filtering allows clinician to view the different
fluorescent signatures to help differentiate between
normal and abnormal tissue
-Abnormal tissue typically appears as an irregular, dark
area that stands out against the otherwise normal fluorescence
pattern of surrounding healthy tissue
For more information about VELscope powered by Sapphire, visit www.denmat.com, or call Dr. Miyasaki’s office at 702.823.5793 with any questions and to schedule a screening appointment.
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