In our continuing efforts to provide the most advanced technology and highest quality care available to our patients, Dr. Goldberg is proud to offer the ViziLite® exam as an integral part of our annual comprehensive oral cancer screening program.
Reports have consistently shown that over the last 40 years that one American dies every hour from oral cancer. Surprisingly, more than 25% of people with oral cancer do not even have lifestyle risk factors for 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. Oral cancer is the most curable diseases if caught early.With early detection of oral cancer, treatment is 90 percent successful. Dr. Goldberg is highly skilled in using ViziLite® and recommends annual ViziLite® exams to detect any oral lesions at their earliest stages.
ViziLite® is the only FDA-cleared device for identifying and monitoring oral abnormalities that could possibly lead to cancer. It 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.
While some dental insurance plans may not cover this advanced oral cancer screening in addition to the standard visual examination, we highly recommend this for all patients at increased risk, high risk and the highest risk for oral cancer. We will perform the ViziLite® exam immediately following the standard visual examination. Our fee for the ViziLite® exam is $65.
Are you at risk for oral cancer?
- People ages 18-39 are at an increased risk.
- People over 40 are at a higher risk.
- Tobacco users (including smokeless) and those who frequently use alcohol are at the highest risk.
- People who have previously had cancer are at the highest risk.
- Males are twice as likely to develop oral cancer than 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.