Oral Cancer
Early Detection Is The Key

May 1, 2009       Leave a Comment
By: Ken Nelson, DDS, Dentistry

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Oral cancer is one of the few types of cancer that hasn't experienced a significantly reduced morality rate in the past 30 years. In fact, the number of North Americans developing oral cancer is three times the number who develops cervical cancer. Sadly, one North American dies of oral cancer every hour of every day. The problem is that about 70% of the time, oral cancer is discovered in the late stages. By the time a lump is felt or a lesion develops it is simply too late.


In the early stages of oral cancer's development, it often is painless, and the physical signs may not be obvious. This makes it a very dangerous disease. Regular screenings by a qualified medical or dental professional, combined with a person's knowledge of the warning signs and symptoms, will allow its discovery in the earliest possible stages, when cure and survival are most likely. Even pre-cancerous tissue changes can be detected by a trained professional.

Now for some good news.

Fortunately, the survival rate for oral cancer discovered at early stages is extremely high. That is why it is so important that you have an oral cancer screening once a year, or twice a year if you smoke or chew tobacco. Health experts recommend that all patients age 14 and older receive annual oral cancer screenings. Because of the importance of early detection our practice has recently invested in a state-of-the-art VELscope system. As part of our conventional oral cancer examination, the VELscope can help us to see beneath the surface to detect potentially dangerous growths we might have otherwise missed.

The VELscope exam takes just a few minutes as part of a regular hygiene check-up, involves no pain or inconvenience, and is completely safe. We think you'll appreciate the peace-of-mind this screening can provide.

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Ken Nelson, DDS, Dentistry
Dr. Nelson has served patients at West Bay Dental since 1985. Dr. Nelson provides most dental services with an emphasis on cosmetics, full mouth reconstruction, oral surgery and implants. More from Ken Nelson, DDS, Dentistry

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