VANCOUVER, Wash., March 12, 2007 (PRIME NEWSWIRE) -- Gentle Dental, a leading provider of comprehensive, convenient and high quality general dentistry, announced that it is evaluating the VELscope to aid in the early detection of oral cancer. The VELscope System is a simple, painless and non-invasive fluorescence technology used to detect oral cancer in its early stages. The VELscope is currently in use in only 70 dental practices on the West Coast, including 10 in the Portland area, according to manufacturer LED Medical Diagnostics Inc.
According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, of the 30,000 people diagnosed with oral cancer each year only half will be alive in five years. This statistic may be due in part to detection methods that relied on visible detection. Oral cancer is often beyond treatment once it reaches a visible state. Technologies like the VELscope can help dentists to see the cancer earlier than previously possible.
The clinical leadership at Gentle Dental is constantly evaluating new technologies and procedures that promise to improve the quality of care. "I'm excited that we are on the cutting-edge with this technology. As the son of a cancer survivor I feel strongly about helping my patients and their loved ones avoid becoming victims of this terrible disease," said Dr. Raul Amador. Dr. Amador is one of the Gentle Dental affiliated dentists evaluating the technology in the East Vancouver office where he practices.
"Oral Cancer is the 'Great Imposter' since it can mimic anything from normal looking mouth sores to a perfectly healthy surface layer while underneath the surface a deadly cancer continues to grow," said Gentle Dental affiliated dentist Dr. Ed Conzatti. "The VELscope would expose these cancers' deadly work at the point when treatment is most effective."
Several lifestyle and chemical factors increase the risk for oral cancer, including tobacco and alcohol use; viruses and fungi; and prolonged exposure to sunlight and radiation. Studies also indicate a diet lacking fruits and vegetables could also increase the risk. Because early detection improves chances of survival, all family members over 18 should be screened yearly. Also, in addition to twice yearly routine dental exams and cleanings, check with your dentist if you or your family members experience any of the following:
- A sore that does not heal within 14 days
- An unusual lump or discoloration
- Any unusual pain or difficulty in chewing, speaking or swallowing
- Wart like masses
- Prolonged hoarseness
- Numbness in the mouth or facial region
About Gentle Dental
Gentle Dental is a leading group of affiliated dental providers offering multiple-specialty dental services in the United States. Gentle Dental and its more than 130 sister dental offices provide comprehensive, convenient and high-quality general dentistry, as well as dental specialties, including orthodontics, periodontics, endodontics, prosthodontics, pediatric dentistry and oral surgery.
For more information about Gentle Dental, call 1-800-gentle1 or visit gentle1.com.
Gentle Dental is a servicemark of InterDent Service Corporation. All other trademarks are the properties of their respective companies. Gentle Dental University is a copyright of InterDent, Inc.