Most of our family dentistry patients are surprised to discover that oral cancer is diagnosed in over 30,000 people each year in the United States and that half of those diagnosed die within 5 years. That is more than many other types of cancer that receive more attention in the media and in medicine. Oral cancer's biggest threat is that many times it is not detected early enough.

In the past, a traditional oral cancer screening consisted of looking at and feeling the tissue in and around the mouth. Modern technology, however, has given us an even better way to detect cancer of the mouth in its earliest stages.

In addition to the traditional oral cancer screening, the doctor recommends each patient have a ViziLite® oral cancer screening done each year. The ViziLite exam consists of an oral rinse and a special light that helps identify any abnormalities in the tissue in your mouth. ViziLite helps identify oral cancer at its earliest stages which can mean the difference between life and death.

Make sure to have a ViziLite exam done each year for your dental health and your life.