VELscope^® Vx technology is changing the way oral mucosal examinations take place. The VELscope^® Vx handheld device emits a harmless, bright blue light which is used to inspect the mouth and tongue.

The device is sensitive to abnormal tissue changes and the distinctive blue-spectrum light causes the soft tissue (oral mucosa) of the mouth to naturally fluoresce.

Healthy tissues fluoresce in distinct patterns that may be visibly disrupted when tissue undergoes an abnormal change (which can occur in the oral mucosa for a multitude of reasons,) such as when associated with dysplasia or oral cancer.

Supplementing the COE

We use our VELscope^® Vx device to supplement the traditional intra and extraoral head and neck exam (also referred to as the comprehensive oral exam or "COE"), and embrace the use of this device to help visualize abnormal oral tissue, such as potential cancerous or pre-cancerous tissues that are not apparent or sometimes not even visible with the naked eye alone. Exams can be more thorough and any suspicious areas can be quickly investigated for confirmation of oral disease.

Why Early Discovery Matters?

The statistics are highly suggestive: when discovered early the 5-year survival rate for oral cancer patients is about 83%. Unfortunately, most cases of oral cancer are discovered in late stages, when the five-year survival rate drops to around 50 percent.

The VELscope device is based on an imaging modality which is sensitive to tissue changes. Its use in everyday practice can provide timely information to dentists and hygienists to enable enhanced visualization of abnormal tissues, which is beneficial for patients.

Changing Demographics

New research confirms that the risk factors for oral cancer have been expanded to include the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV16), in addition to tobacco use, frequent and/or excessive alcohol consumption, a compromised immune system, and past history of cancer. This changing demographic presents an unprecedented call to action for oral cancer awareness and regular screenings. We are pleased to offer this screening to all of our patients.

Oral DNA Testing for HPV with OralDNA Salivary Diagnostics

We are pleased to offer salivary diagnostic DNA testing for which can identify and help effectively treat certain challenging conditions as well as identify risk factors for oral cancer, decay, and periodontal disease.

Find hidden oral pathogens that threaten your oral and systemic health. Common pathogens directly cause gum disease and may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, stroke and birth complications.

Learn if you were born with genWe markers associated with increased inflammation, a critical factor in the severity of periodontal, diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Help your dentist select the most effective treatment if you already have periodontal disease, and then measure results with a follow-up test.

Learn if you have HPV high-risk types associated with oral cancer.

For those who are prone to frequent decay, we can now test for the bacteria associated with decay and design specific regimens for reducing the acidity of saliva, which include targeted antimicrobial therapy , Chemo-theraputic agents in the form of mouthwashes, pH testing for the acidity of saliva and dietary counseling.