VELscope Oral Cancer Screening System
At Tri-Cities Center for Cosmetic Dentistry, we believe that protecting your health goes far beyond your teeth and gums. That’s why we’ve invested in the VELscope Oral Cancer Screening System—a cutting-edge diagnostic tool that helps us detect abnormal tissue changes in your mouth before they become serious.
Each year, more than 480,000 people worldwide are diagnosed with oral or throat cancer, including over 35,000 here in the United States. Tragically, one person in the U.S. dies from oral cancer every hour. The good news is that when caught early, oral cancer is highly treatable—with survival rates increasing by up to 80–90%.
Why Oral Cancer Screening Matters
Oral cancer can develop silently and without pain in its early stages, making it difficult to detect during a routine visual exam alone. With the help of VELscope, we’re able to identify suspicious areas that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Dr. Kathy Sanders and Dr. Erika Lovett incorporate VELscope screenings into comprehensive dental exams as part of our commitment to whole-patient care. These quick, painless screenings could potentially save lives—and we consider that one of the most important things we do.
Who is at risk for oral cancer?
Anyone can develop oral cancer, but certain factors increase the risk, including:
- Use of tobacco products (including cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and chewing tobacco)
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- A family history of oral cancer or other cancers
- Prolonged sun exposure, especially at a young age
- Human papillomavirus (HPV-16), which has been linked to a rise in oral cancer cases—particularly among younger adults and women
Though men over 50 have traditionally been the most affected, the demographics are shifting. Routine screenings are important for all adults, regardless of age or lifestyle.
How VELscope Works
VELscope uses a special blue-spectrum light and viewing scope that allows Dr. Sanders or Dr. Lovett to see tissue changes that aren’t visible under normal lighting. Healthy oral tissue will naturally fluoresce under the light, appearing a bright green color. Areas that appear darker may indicate abnormal or pre-cancerous changes.
The screening is completely non-invasive, takes just a few minutes, and is performed comfortably in the dental chair during your regular exam.
It’s important to note that not all dark areas mean cancer is present. If an area appears suspicious, we may recommend monitoring it over time or performing a gentle brush biopsy to gather more information. Our goal is always to take a proactive, compassionate approach while keeping you fully informed every step of the way.
A Vital Part of Preventive Care
At Tri-Cities Center for Cosmetic Dentistry, we believe that oral cancer screening is a critical component of preventive dental care. By offering VELscope technology to our patients in Kingsport and throughout the Tri-Cities, we’re not just treating smiles—we’re helping protect lives.
If it’s been a while since your last dental exam or you’ve never had an oral cancer screening, we encourage you to schedule an appointment. It’s simple, quick, and could make all the difference.
Contact us today to learn more about VELscope oral cancer screening in Kingsport, TN, or to schedule your next preventive dental visit. Your health and peace of mind matter to us.
