One American dies every hour from oral cancer. Through the latest advancements in technology, dentists are now able to detect oral cancer at an earlier stage, which ultimately can save lives. With early detection of oral cancer, treatment is 90 percent successful. Dr. Roybal is highly skilled in using ViziLite™ and recommends annual ViziLite™ exams to detect any oral lesions at their earliest stages.
ViziLite™ allows us to be more thorough in our visual examination of the mouth by making abnormal areas clearer that were once harder to see.
The ViziLite™ test is quick and pain-free; taking only two minutes. After swishing a cleansing solution in your mouth for 60 seconds, we will perform a visual examination using the ViziLite™. This revolutionary technology enables us to recognize potential oral cancer areas early and treat them before they become more serious.
Are you at risk for oral cancer?
People at risk for oral cancer include people over 40 who use tobacco (including smokeless), people over 40 that frequently use alcohol and people who have previously had cancer. Also, males are twice as likely to have oral cancer as women.
What are common oral cancer signs and symptoms?
- A persistent sore in the mouth that doesn’t heal after 10-14 days
- A sore that bleeds easily
- A white or red spot in the mouth
- Inexplicable pain or soreness in the throat, mouth or lips
- Numbness of any part of the mouth
- Difficulty chewing, swallowing or moving the tongue or jaw
What can you do to reduce your risk of oral cancer?
There are several ways to help reduce your risk of oral cancer. Be familiar with the risks and the symptoms of oral cancer. Also, avoid all tobacco and the excessive use of alcohol. Please inform us of any risk factors you may have and have an oral cancer screening at least once a year.