Oral Cancer Screening

Early detection saves lives

15 min

Oral cancer affects tens of thousands of Americans each year, and early detection dramatically improves treatment outcomes and survival rates. At our Middletown, NY practice, oral cancer screening is included as part of every comprehensive dental exam because we believe proactive detection is one of the most important things we can do for your health.

Our screening process combines a thorough visual and tactile examination with VELscope technology — an advanced fluorescence visualization device that helps identify abnormal tissue changes that may not be visible to the naked eye. The VELscope emits a safe blue light that causes healthy oral tissue to fluoresce in distinct patterns. Areas of concern, such as precancerous or cancerous lesions, appear differently under this light, allowing Dr. Alex to identify potential issues at their earliest and most treatable stages.

While anyone can develop oral cancer, certain factors increase risk, including tobacco and alcohol use, HPV infection, prolonged sun exposure to the lips, and a family history of cancer. However, approximately 25% of oral cancer cases occur in patients with no known risk factors, which is why we screen every patient regardless of their history. If any abnormalities are detected, Dr. Alex will discuss the findings with you and recommend appropriate next steps, which may include a biopsy or referral to a specialist.

Key Benefits

Included at no additional cost with every comprehensive exam
VELscope technology detects abnormalities invisible to the naked eye
Quick, painless, and completely non-invasive screening
Early detection significantly improves treatment success rates

What to Expect

The oral cancer screening is a quick, painless addition to your regular comprehensive exam and takes approximately 15 minutes. Dr. Alex will begin with a visual inspection of your lips, tongue, cheeks, floor and roof of your mouth, throat, and gums, looking for any unusual sores, discolorations, or tissue changes. A gentle tactile examination checks for lumps or irregularities. The VELscope device is then used to illuminate your oral tissues with a harmless blue light while Dr. Alex observes the fluorescence patterns through the scope. There is no rinse, dye, or discomfort involved. If any area of concern is identified, Dr. Alex will explain what was found, discuss potential causes, and outline the recommended follow-up, which may include monitoring the area, performing a simple brush biopsy, or referring you to an oral surgeon for further evaluation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. We include a comprehensive oral cancer screening as part of every exam at no additional charge. We believe early detection is too important to treat as an optional add-on, so every patient receives this screening during their comprehensive visit.
VELscope is an FDA-cleared device that uses a safe blue-spectrum light to help visualize abnormalities in the oral tissues that may not be apparent during a standard visual examination. The light is completely harmless — there is no radiation, no dye, and no discomfort involved.
Not every abnormality indicates cancer. Many findings turn out to be benign conditions. If Dr. Alex identifies an area of concern, the next step may be monitoring the area over a short period, performing a painless brush biopsy in our office, or referring you to a specialist for further evaluation. We will guide you through every step of the process.
Everyone. While tobacco users, heavy alcohol consumers, and individuals with HPV are at higher risk, oral cancer can affect anyone. Approximately one in four oral cancer cases occurs in people with no known risk factors. That is why we screen every patient during their comprehensive exam, regardless of age or lifestyle.

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Book AppointmentCall (845) 555-0180