April Is Oral Cancer Awareness Month

Every day, approximately 132 Americans are diagnosed with a type of oral cancer. While there is no guaranteed way to prevent oral cancer, early detection can be critical for a successful recovery. At Encinitas Cosmetic Dentistry, Cathy Santone, DDS offers oral cancer screenings that can be easily performed as part of a routine dental visit. These screenings allow Dr. Santone to catch oral cancer in its earliest stages, enabling patients to receive prompt treatment in the event an abnormality is detected.

During the month of April, which is Oral Cancer Awareness Month, Dr. Santone is encouraging patients to come in for an annual oral cancer screening with the adjunctive VELscope^® Vx technology. Dr. Santone and her dental hygienist complete an oral cancer screening during their patients’ routine dental cleaning visits with natural white light. The adjunctive oral cancer screenings will be performed with VELscope^® Vx technology, a non-invasive device that uses a specialized blue light to detect early tissue changes in the oral mucosa. One hundred percent of the normal screening fee ($35) collected during the month of April will be donated by Dr. Santone to the Oral Cancer Foundation.

Though Dr. Santone believes oral cancer screenings are an important part of maintaining good oral health for everyone, certain patients are at a higher risk for developing the condition and should be screened more frequently. High-risk patients include people who smoke (Tobacco, E-cigarettes, Marijuana or Vape), use tobacco products, drink alcohol or have potential exposure to HPV.

To learn more about oral cancer screenings and Oral Cancer Awareness Month, or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Santone, please contact our office today.