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VELScope

The VELscope system is based on direct fluorescence visualization of the oral mucosa and when used together with the traditional comprehensive oral examination, enhances the ability of the clinician to visualize oral abnormalities, even ones that may not be visible or apparent to the naked eye.

Oral cancer screening is a painless, fast, and non-invasive part of your comprehensive dental exam. When you found the beginning stages of development, early cancer treatment has an 80% to 90% success rate.

Symptoms of oral cancer often go unnoticed- but it doesn’t have to be this way. Regular dental check ups by Dr. Eckstein can provide early detection of symptoms attributed to oral cancer, offering the best defense for both your health and your peace of mind.

Who is at risk for Oral Cancer?

Certain lifestyle choices and habits can increase the risk of oral cancer. Smoking or using tobacco as well as excessive alcohol consumption should be avoided to maintain health of the mouth and overall physical well-being. Although men and people over the age of 45 are more frequently diagnosed with oral cancer, anyone can develop the disease. Regardless of age or gender, Dr. E recommends getting a VELScope assisted exam at least once a year.

Natural tissue fluorescence is caused by “fluorophores” that, when excited by light of an appropriate wavelength (e.g. blue) will emit their own light at a longer wavelength (e.g. green). The resulting fluorescence reveals information about cellular, structural, and/or metabolic activity changes that can be directly related to disease processes occurring inside the tissue.

What to Expect during Your Oral Cancer Screening

The non-invasive examination takes less than 5 minutes, and is completely free of pain or discomfort. During your routine dental visit, Dr. Eckstein will look inside your mouth, checking for small sores or patches of discoloration. He will also check for any lumps by feeling inside and around your mouth, throat and neck.

The World’s #1 Adjunctive Examination Device

• Traditional oral mucosal examination relies on reflected light to visualize the oral cavity.
• The VELscope allows the direct visualization of tissue fluorescence which complements and expands upon the view obtained by reflected light.
• Using these different visualization methods together provides an enhanced examination that decreases the likelihood of overlooking possibly serious pathology.