Velscope Oral Cancer Screening

Early Detection Before & After

Oral cancer is a serious condition that often develops without noticeable symptoms in its early stages. According to the Ontario Dental Association, oral cancer has a higher mortality rate than both breast cancer and prostate cancer—not because it is more aggressive, but because it is frequently diagnosed late. Early detection dramatically improves treatment success, making routine oral cancer screenings an essential part of your dental care.

At Bronte Road Family Dental, we use the VELscope® Oral Cancer Screening System, a state-of-the-art device that helps us identify abnormal tissue changes long before they become visible to the naked eye.

What Is Oral Cancer Screening?

Oral cancer screening is a quick, painless examination of the mouth, gums, tongue, and surrounding tissues to identify signs of cancer or pre-cancerous changes. Your dentist checks for:

• Unusual lumps or bumps

• Persistent sores

• Red or white patches

• Texture changes

• Areas of inflammation

• Thickened or discoloured tissue

Because oral cancer often begins silently, regular screenings are one of the best tools for early detection and prevention.

How Can VELscope Screening Help?

The VELscope® is an enhanced visualization device used as an adjunct to the dentist’s traditional oral exam. It helps:

• Detect abnormal tissue changes earlier

• Identify pre-cancerous or cancerous lesions

• Highlight changes invisible under regular examination lighting

• Improve the accuracy and thoroughness of screenings

• Provide peace of mind through advanced technology

The VELscope’s fluorescent light technology allows us to see abnormalities beneath the surface layers of tissue, improving diagnostic confidence.

What Is the VELscope Device?

The VELscope emits a harmless, bright blue light that allows the dentist to observe natural tissue fluorescence. Healthy tissue fluoresces in a consistent pattern, while abnormal areas—such as inflammation, dysplasia, or cancer—appear as dark or irregular spots.

This technology is:

• Non-invasive

• Painless

• Quick (usually under two minutes)

• Extremely sensitive to early tissue changes

It is a powerful tool for early discovery of tissue abnormalities that may require further monitoring or biopsy.

What Is the Process?

Here is what you can expect during a VELscope oral cancer screening:

Before the Screening

Your dentist will ask about:

• Any mouth sores that haven’t healed

• Changes in swallowing or speech

• Persistent hoarseness

• Tobacco or alcohol use

• Family or personal medical history

During the Screening

1. A traditional visual and tactile exam is performed.

2. The lights are dimmed in the room.

3. The VELscope device shines a bright blue light into your mouth.

4. The dentist examines the fluorescence patterns of your tissues.

The entire screening is comfortable and completed within minutes.

After the Screening

If any abnormal areas are identified:

• You may be asked to return for re-evaluation

• Additional imaging may be considered

• A biopsy or referral may be recommended if needed

Most findings are benign, but early investigation is essential for safety.

Risks to Be Aware Of

VELscope screening is safe and has no known risks. However, keep in mind:

• It does not diagnose cancer on its own

• Abnormal findings may require further testing

• Routine screenings are important even if you feel healthy

Because oral cancer often presents without pain, do not wait for symptoms before being screened.

Final Thoughts

Early detection saves lives. With the help of VELscope technology, Bronte Road Family Dental provides advanced oral cancer screening designed to catch abnormalities in their earliest stages—when treatment is most effective.

We are committed to protecting your oral and overall health through modern screening tools and thorough evaluations.