Oral cancer is a deadly disease. It’s important to screen for it. Every year around 45,000 new cases of mouth and throat cancer are diagnosed, with about 13% of these people dying within the first year they are diagnosed. Fortunately, just like with any cancer, the chances of treating oral cancer improve the earlier this deadly disease is detected.
For the month of May, we’re including a complimentary oral cancer screening ($35 value) for every current and new patient who requests it during their scheduled appointment at North Seattle Dental, either for a routine check-up, teeth cleaning or for any other type of dental service. If you’re due for a check-up, this would be a great way to get a little extra oral health screening – Just contact us to set up your appointment.
Each patient’s appointment will include a VELscope examination. Besides checking your neck and mouth for lumps, red or white patches, or sore areas that will not heal, which we already do for routine check-ups, the VELscope examination is a special cancer screening tool that helps us discover any signs of oral cancer before they become evident under ordinary light. When oral cancer is found in its early stages, the survival rate is good.
There are many things patients can do to help protect themselves, such as being aware of oral cancer signs and symptoms and making sure to let your dentist know of any changes in your mouth or throat.
Staying mindful of oral cancer, its symptoms and regularly screening for it are all important steps to improving the survival rates from this disease with early detection.
Learn more about the VELscope examination and oral cancer, including its signs and symptoms, as well as things you can do to lower your risk.
Help lower the risk of oral cancer for your friends and family – Give a FREE VELscope Cancer Screening Voucher!