Oral Cancer Screenings

in Roswell & Alpharetta, GA

Oral Cancer Screenings: Early Detection Saves Lives

Are you concerned about oral cancer? Has it been a while since your last oral cancer screening? Early detection is key to treating oral cancer, so it’s crucial to get regular screenings. At Northbridge Dental, our Alpharetta and Roswell preventive dentists provide oral cancer screenings using the ViziLite® Plus with TBlue® method to help detect any signs of cancerous growths or lesions in the mouth.

What Is Oral Cancer?

Oral cancer is a serious disease that can affect anyone. It can develop in any part of the mouth, including the lips, tongue, gums, and roof of the mouth. According to the American Cancer Society, approximately 54,000 new cases of oral cancer are diagnosed each year in the United States.

Signs and symptoms of oral cancer may include:

Persistent mouth sores
Difficulty swallowing
A lump or thickening in the cheek
White or red patches on the gums, tongue, or lining of the mouth
Unexplained bleeding in the mouth.

Oral cancer screenings are essential for detecting early signs of the disease, which can help increase the chances of successful treatment. During an oral cancer screening using the ViziLite® Plus with TBlue® method, your Alpharetta or Roswell dentist at Northbridge Dental will examine your mouth for any suspicious growths or lesions that could indicate oral cancer.

Benefits of Oral Cancer Screenings

Oral cancer screenings are an essential part of preventive dental care and offer several important benefits:

Early Detection: Oral cancer screenings using the ViziLite® Plus with TBlue® method allow for the early detection of abnormalities in the mouth, including precancerous lesions or early-stage cancers. Detecting oral cancer in its initial stages greatly improves the chances of successful treatment and a positive prognosis.
Timely Treatment: By identifying potential signs of oral cancer early on, prompt treatment can be initiated. Early intervention increases the likelihood of successful treatment outcomes and may reduce the need for more invasive and aggressive procedures.
Improved Survival Rates: Early detection and treatment of oral cancer are associated with higher survival rates. Regular oral cancer screenings using the ViziLite® Plus with TBlue® method can help detect abnormalities before they progress into advanced stages, improving the chances of successful treatment and long-term survival.
Reduced Treatment Costs: Treating oral cancer in advanced stages can be more complex, requiring extensive surgeries, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. By detecting oral cancer at an early stage using the ViziLite® Plus with TBlue® method, the treatment may be less invasive and more cost-effective, potentially reducing the financial burden on patients.
Peace of Mind: Regular oral cancer screenings using the ViziLite® Plus with TBlue® method provide peace of mind by offering reassurance that your oral health is being monitored and potential issues are being identified. This proactive approach to oral care promotes overall well-being and allows for timely interventions if necessary.

Oral cancer screenings using the ViziLite® Plus with TBlue® method at Northbridge Dental are quick, painless, and non-invasive. Routine screenings, combined with a comprehensive oral hygiene routine and regular dental check-ups, form a vital part of maintaining optimal oral health and reducing the risks associated with oral cancer.

Our Alpharetta and Roswell preventive dentists, Dr. Elvira Galperin and Dr. Stanley Sotnikov, are trained to perform thorough examinations using the ViziLite® Plus with TBlue® method, checking for any suspicious lesions or abnormalities in the oral cavity.

The Process of Oral Cancer Screenings

Examination

The process of oral cancer screenings using the ViziLite® Plus with TBlue® method is quick and painless. Your dentist at Northbridge Dental will start by examining your mouth visually for any signs of cancerous growths or lesions. They will also utilize the ViziLite® Plus device, which emits a special blue light, to help identify any abnormal tissue in the mouth.

TBlue® Application

Your dentist will apply the TBlue® solution to your mouth. This solution helps enhance the visualization of any abnormal areas. The blue light from the ViziLite® Plus device causes abnormal tissue to appear dark, making it easier for your dentist to identify potential areas of concern.

Biopsy

If they find anything suspicious, they may perform a biopsy, which involves removing a small tissue sample from the area and sending it to a lab for testing. Biopsies are usually performed under local anesthesia and take only a few minutes to complete.

Tools Used for Oral Cancer Screenings

During oral cancer screenings using the ViziLite® Plus with TBlue® method, we’ll use several tools to help detect any signs of cancerous growths or lesions. These tools include:

ViziLite® Plus Device: This handheld device emits a special blue light that helps your Alpharetta or Roswell dentist at Northbridge Dental identify any suspicious growths or lesions that may be indicative of oral cancer.
TBlue® Solution: The TBlue® solution is applied to the mouth to enhance the visualization of any abnormal areas. When combined with the ViziLite® Plus device, it helps identify potential areas of concern more effectively.
Dental Mirror: Your dentist will use a dental mirror to examine hard-to-see areas in the mouth, such as the back of the throat and the roof of the mouth. This tool allows them to get a better look at any suspicious growths or lesions.
White Light: Your dentist will also use a bright light to help them see any abnormal tissue in the mouth. This tool is used in conjunction with other screening tools to ensure that all suspicious areas are examined thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I get an oral cancer screening?

Dentists recommend getting an oral cancer screening at least once a year, especially if you’re at a higher risk for developing oral cancer, such as smokers, heavy drinkers, and those with a family history of the disease.

Are oral cancer screenings covered by insurance?

Many insurance plans cover the cost of oral cancer screenings, but it’s best to check with your insurance provider to see if it’s covered under your plan. You can also check if your dentist offers in-house financing plans to help pay for your treatment.

Can oral cancer screenings detect other oral health issues besides cancer?

Yes, during an oral cancer screening, the dentist will also check for other oral health issues, such as gum disease, oral infections, and abnormalities in the soft tissues. By examining your oral cavity comprehensively, your dentist can identify various conditions and provide appropriate treatment or referrals if necessary. Oral cancer screenings offer a valuable opportunity for early detection of cancer and other oral health concerns.

Is an oral cancer screening painful?

No, an oral cancer screening is typically painless. It involves a visual examination of your mouth and the use of screening tools such as the ViziLite® Plus device with TBlue®. These methods are non-invasive and do not cause discomfort. Your dentist will ensure your comfort throughout the screening process.

Call Northbridge Dental to Protect Your Health With Oral Cancer Screenings

Remember, maintaining regular dental check-ups and oral cancer screenings are crucial for comprehensive oral health care. If you have any specific concerns or questions about oral cancer screenings using the ViziLite® Plus with TBlue® method, don’t hesitate to consult with Northbridge Dental in Alpharetta at (678) 319-0210 or in Roswell at (678) 352-9890.

We serve new and returning patients from Alpharetta and Roswell, GA, and surrounding areas such as Crabapple, Suwanee, and John’s Creek. Schedule your oral cancer screening today and take an important step in protecting your oral health and overall well-being.