In recognition of Oral Cancer Awareness Month, the staff of Family and Spa Dentistry in Pennington reminds patients that an oral cancer screening can be life saving!
Oral cancer rates have continued to rise as a result of several factors, one being the lack of routine screening both in the U.S. and abroad. Although screening is quick, painless and relatively inexpensive, many go without it due to a general lack of routine dental care and health care. Unfortunately this often leads to a late stage diagnosis and a poor prognosis for recovery: survival rates continue to hover around 50% for late stage oral cancer.
Dr. Vagnozzi-Bucci offers patients an enhanced oral cancer screening with Velscope technology and for the month of April is providing this service FREE to patients – a savings of $21!
How does Velscope work?
Velscope technology uses blue fluorescent light to examine the soft tissue of the mouth. Abnormal areas will not fluoresce properly, indicating the possible presence of cancerous cells and prompting further evaluation for oral cancer.
In addition to a traditional visual examination by Dr. Vagnozzi-Bucci, this technology can aid in spotting oral cancer in the early stage, when treatment is likely to be both conservative and successful.
If you smoke or use tobacco of any kind, let us know at your next visit so we can discuss your increased risk for oral cancers and how to look for the early warning signs.
Dentistry and your health
When you visit our Pennington family dentist office twice a year for routine dental cleanings and exams, Dr. Vagnozzi-Bucci is able to become familiarized with your oral health and more effectively spot suspicious areas of soft tissue or the appearance of sores or lumps in the mouth or neck area.
Preventive dental care is important for both maintaining lifelong dental health and playing a role in the prevention of health concerns such as oral cancer. Family and Spa Dentistry is a partner in your overall health care and in helping you to enjoy a good quality of life every day.
