Protecting
Your Health With Early Detection
Oral cancer is a serious condition that can affect the lips, tongue, cheeks, throat, and other areas of the mouth. One American dies every hour from oral cancer. Early detection could save your life. At Long Island Family Dental, we believe prevention and early detection are key to maintaining both oral health and overall well-being. That’s why we provide thorough oral cancer screenings as part of our commitment to complete family care.
Oral Cancer Screening
25% of oral cancers occur in people who don’t smoke and have no other risk factors.
In just 3 minutes, we can painlessly examine your mouth with the use of a “Velscope.” As seen on “Dr. Oz,” the use of “Velscope” greatly enhances our ability to detect early signs of oral cancer.
Understanding Risk Factors
While tobacco and heavy alcohol use remain the leading risk factors for oral cancer, not all patients who develop the disease fall into these categories. In fact, research shows that:
- 25% of oral cancers occur in people who don’t smoke or drink heavily.
- Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a growing factor in oral cancer diagnoses.
- Excessive sun exposure can increase the risk of lip cancers.
- Family history and genetic factors may also play a role.
Because anyone can be at risk, screenings are important for all adults, not just those with known lifestyle risks.
What to Expect During a Screening
Our screenings are quick, painless, and can be performed during your regular dental exam.
Visual Examination
We inspect the lips, tongue, cheeks, and throat for any irregularities such as sores, red or white patches, or lumps.
01
Palpation
Gentle pressure is applied to feel for unusual tissue changes or swelling.
02
Velscope Technology
Using advanced light technology, Velscope helps us detect abnormalities that may not be visible to the naked eye.
03
The entire process takes just a few minutes but can make a lasting difference in your health.
Benefits of
Early Detection
The biggest advantage of routine oral cancer screening is the chance to identify cancer in its earliest stages. Early detection can:
- Increase survival rates significantly.
- Allow for less invasive treatment options.
- Reduce the risk of cancer spreading to other areas.
- Provide peace of mind for patients at higher risk.
Screenings are simple, fast, and non-invasive, yet they can have life-saving benefits.
Book Your Screening Today
Early detection can make all the difference. Whether or not you have known risk factors, we recommend including oral cancer screening as part of your regular dental care.
Call us at (631) 423-5200 or visit us at 931 Walt Whitman Rd, Melville, NY 11747 to schedule your oral cancer screening today. Protecting your health starts with a simple, three-minute exam.