The American Cancer Society estimates about 54,000 new cases of oral cancer occurred in 2023. It is more important than ever to stay informed and get screened. If caught early, oral cancers are very treatable and manageable. Using the VELscope, as described below, makes screenings easy and accurate.

Find out how the VELscope works and when you should get a screening for oral cancer.
 

What is Oral Cancer?

Oral cancer is a broad term that refers to any cancerous material found in or around the oral cavity. It can appear on:

• The lips
• The tongue
• The floor of the mouth
• The throat
• The sinuses
• The hard and soft palate

 

Oral Cancer Symptoms

Because “oral cancer” encapsulates so many different cancers, there are many different symptoms that can manifest. Some of the most common are:

• Persistent sore throat
• The feeling of something caught in the back of the throat
• Unexplained bleeding in the mouth
• Bleeding sores on the face, neck, or mouth that don’t heal in two weeks
• Loss of feeling, pain, numbness in face, neck, or mouth
• Ear pain
• Lumps, bumps, or rough spots on the gums, lips, or mouth
• Red, white, or speckled red and white patches in the mouth
• Difficulty chewing, speaking, or swallowing
• Changes in the way the teeth or dentures fit together

 
If one or more of these symptoms develop, visit your dentist for a screening as soon as possible.
 

What is the VELscope?

The VELscope was launched as an oral cancer screening system in 2006. It uses two major components: a ring light, which gives off a particular wavelength of blue light, and an eyepiece with a special filter. These two parts comprise the VELscope and contribute to the early detection of oral cancer. The VELscope helps locate potentially cancerous lesions that are invisible to the naked eye.
 

How Does the VELscope Work?

The specific blue light the VELscope emits, excites, and lights up molecules in the mouth called fluorophores. Fluorophores are present in normal, healthy oral tissues. When the light shines on your oral tissues, your healthy parts light up green. Anything abnormal is shown as a dark area surrounded by healthy green.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is It Safe?

Yes, the VELscope is safe. The handpiece doesn’t emit radiation. The only thing it does is emit blue light into the oral cavity.
 

How Often Should I Get an Oral Cancer Screening with the VELscope?

It’s recommended to get screened for oral cancer once a year.
 

Concerned About Your Dental Health? Contact Us!

Contact our Alexandria dental office or call 240-532-3335 if you have any concerns about your dental or oral health. Our experts will address your questions and provide guidance to ensure your oral health is where it needs to be.
 
Author Bio: Dr. Kathleen Mullaney offers general and cosmetic dentistry services in Alexandria, VA. She earned her doctorate in dental surgery from the Medical College of Virginia (MCV) and proudly served as a United States Navy dentist before opening her practice. With over 25 years of experience, Dr. Mullaney is delighted to be one of Old Town’s most respected and sought-after dentists! Call 240-532-3335 to schedule an appointment.