Oral cancer may not get the same headlines as other types of cancer, but it is far more common, and far more dangerous, than many people realize. According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, about 54,000 Americans will be diagnosed with oral or oropharyngeal cancer this year, and nearly 10,000 will die from it. What makes this statistic even more alarming is that many of these cases could have been detected earlier with proper screenings.
Fortunately, advances in dental technology are making it easier than ever to spot oral cancer in its earliest, most treatable stages. Tools like VELscope, OralID, and other enhanced screening devices allow dental professionals to detect abnormal tissue changes long before they’re visible to the naked eye. If you’ve never had an oral cancer screening, or you didn’t know such technology exists, this blog will explain why it’s a critical part of your oral health care and who may be at higher risk.
Why Oral Cancer is So Dangerous
One of the reasons oral cancer is so deadly is because it often goes undetected until it has progressed to a later stage. In its early stages, oral cancer may not cause any pain or noticeable symptoms. It can quietly develop in areas like the tongue, the floor of the mouth, the soft palate, or even the tonsils.
By the time visible symptoms appear, such as a persistent sore, lump, or difficulty swallowing, the disease may have already spread. At that point, treatment becomes more complex, and survival rates decline sharply. This is why early detection is the key to improving outcomes.
What is an Oral Cancer Screening?
An oral cancer screening is a quick, painless exam performed by your dentist or hygienist during a routine check-up or at any dental visit. The provider looks for any signs of abnormal tissue in the mouth, throat, and neck. While a traditional visual and tactile exam is useful, today’s dental practices are incorporating advanced technology for a more thorough evaluation.
How Technology is Changing the Game
VELscope
VELscope is a handheld device that uses blue-spectrum light to enhance the visualization of oral tissues. Healthy tissue fluoresces in a predictable pattern, while abnormal tissue, potentially cancerous or precancerous, appears darker. The device allows clinicians to see beneath the surface, detecting changes that might not be visible with the naked eye.
OralID
Similar to VELscope, OralID uses fluorescence technology to screen for abnormal cells. The device emits a blue light, and providers wear special filtered glasses that allow them to see any irregularities in real-time. OralID is non-invasive, requires no dyes or rinses, and provides immediate results.
Other Technologies
Other screening tools include Identafi, which uses multi-spectral light, and Brush Biopsy kits that help collect and analyze cells from suspicious areas. These technologies significantly improve the accuracy and speed of early detection, giving patients the best possible chance for successful treatment.
Who is at Risk for Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer doesn’t discriminate, it can affect anyone, but certain lifestyle habits and health factors can significantly increase the risk. Understanding these risks can help you make informed choices and stay proactive about your screenings.
Tobacco Use
Smoking cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and using smokeless tobacco like chew or snuff is one of the most significant risk factors. Tobacco products contain carcinogens that directly damage the cells in your mouth and throat.
Alcohol Consumption
Excessive alcohol use (more than 2 drinks per day for men, 1 for women) is linked to a higher risk of oral cancer. When combined with tobacco use, the risk multiplies dramatically.
HPV (Human Papillomavirus)
HPV, particularly HPV-16, is now one of the leading causes of oropharyngeal cancers (those affecting the back of the throat, tonsils, and base of the tongue). The virus can be transmitted through oral sex and may not cause symptoms, making regular screening even more critical.
Excessive Sun Exposure
Exposure to UV rays increases the risk of lip cancer, especially in people who spend a lot of time outdoors without using lip protection.
Age and Gender
Oral cancer is more common in people over age 40, and men are twice as likely to develop it as women, though the gap is narrowing due to changing lifestyle trends.
Family History and Genetics
A family history of cancer can increase your risk, although lifestyle factors tend to play a larger role in oral cancers.
What You Can Do
- Get Screened Regularly
Ask your dentist if they offer enhanced oral cancer screenings using VELscope, OralID, or similar devices. Early detection is key. - Avoid Tobacco and Limit Alcohol
Cutting back or quitting entirely can drastically reduce your risk. - Practice Safe Oral Habits
Use protection and consider the HPV vaccine to lower your risk of virus-related oral cancers. - Protect Your Lips
Use lip balm with SPF when you’re in the sun. - Know the Signs
Watch for persistent mouth sores, lumps, difficulty swallowing, numbness, or voice changes. Report anything unusual to your dentist.
Oral cancer can be silent, but with the help of modern screening tools like VELscope and OralID, your dental team can uncover warning signs early, when treatment is most effective. Whether or not you fall into a high-risk group, routine screenings should be a non-negotiable part of your oral health care.
Don’t wait for symptoms to appear! Ask your dentist about oral cancer screenings at your next visit, and take charge of your health, because a simple scan could save your life!
Sherri Merritt
Dental Consultant & Trainer
