In the past 30 years, there has been a 60% increase in oral cancer in adults under the age of 40. Alarmingly, 25% of newly diagnosed cases of oral cancer do not fit the high risk profile. The BC Cancer Agency therefore, recommends that all patients over the age of 19 should be screened annually for oral cancer. 50% of patients diagnosed with oral cancer are expected to die within 5 years. If caught early, 90% of cases are curable.
Clinical and technological advances have increased the range of oral care options available to our patients. Oral health has consequences for the overall health and well being of an individual, and we have incorporated the use of the VELscope with our existing treatment and diagnostic services.
VELscope® is a revolutionary device that provides us with an easy-to-use oral examination system for the early detection of abnormal soft tissue (pre cancer lesions). VELscope is the only non-invasive device clinically proven to help discover pre-malignant oral disease.
The VELscope Handpiece emits a safe blue light into the mouth, which causes the tissue to appear different colours through the viewfinder. This allows the dentist to tell the difference between normal and abnormal tissue. This is a totally painless and quick procedure.
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