VELscope® Cancer Screening

VELscope Oral Cancer Screening in Palm Harbor & Trinity, FL

At Prestige Dentistry, protecting your health is just as important to us as enhancing your smile.

That’s why we proudly offer VELscope oral cancer screening—an advanced, non-invasive technology that helps us detect abnormalities in oral tissues early, often before they can be seen with the naked eye.

Whether you’re visiting our Palm Harbor or Trinity location, our experienced dental team uses VELscope as part of your routine exams to ensure you receive the most thorough care possible. Early detection is key to successful treatment, and this simple, painless screening could save your life.

What Is VELscope?

VELscope is a handheld, FDA-approved device that uses natural tissue fluorescence to enhance the visibility of oral abnormalities. By shining a safe blue light into your mouth, it highlights changes in tissue that may indicate the presence of cancer, precancerous lesions, or other oral diseases. The device helps us detect what might be missed during a standard visual exam alone.

Unlike traditional screening methods, which rely solely on visual and tactile examination, VELscope allows us to assess deeper layers of tissue and identify potential issues at an earlier stage.

Why Oral Cancer Screening Matters

Oral cancer is more common than many people realize. It affects tens of thousands of Americans each year and is often not diagnosed until it’s reached a more advanced—and harder to treat—stage. Unfortunately, many cases of oral cancer go unnoticed in the early phases because symptoms are subtle or mistaken for minor concerns.

Early detection makes all the difference. When oral cancer is found in its initial stages, treatment is significantly more successful and less invasive. With regular screenings using VELscope, we can detect abnormalities before they become dangerous.

Who Should Get Screened?

Oral cancer screenings are important for everyone, regardless of age or risk factors. However, certain groups are at higher risk and should receive more frequent screenings, including:

  • Individuals over 40
  • Tobacco users (smoking or smokeless)
  • Heavy alcohol consumers
  • People with a history of HPV (human papillomavirus)
  • Patients with a family history of cancer
  • Individuals with frequent sun exposure (for lip cancers)

Even if you don’t fall into any of these categories, routine screenings are still a smart and proactive part of preventive dental care.

What Happens During a VELscope Exam?

A VELscope screening at Prestige Dentistry is fast, painless, and takes just a few minutes. Here’s what you can expect:

  • Visual and Physical Exam – We start with a traditional oral cancer screening, visually checking your mouth, lips, tongue, cheeks, and throat for any noticeable signs of concern.
  • VELscope Illumination – Next, we use the VELscope device to shine a blue light in your mouth. Healthy tissues will appear a uniform green, while suspicious or abnormal tissues may appear dark or irregular under the light.
  • Evaluation – If anything unusual is detected, we’ll discuss the findings with you and may recommend further evaluation, a biopsy, or referral to a specialist if necessary.

There’s no discomfort, no radiation, and no recovery time needed.

VELscope: A Smart Addition to Preventive Dental Care

At Prestige Dentistry, we believe preventive care should go beyond cleanings and fillings. Oral cancer screening with VELscope is an essential part of our wellness-focused approach. It’s especially valuable because:

  • It helps detect oral diseases that aren’t visible to the naked eye.
  • It enhances diagnostic accuracy without the need for invasive testing.
  • It provides peace of mind for patients at all risk levels.
  • It integrates easily into your regular dental exam—no extra appointment needed.

We’re committed to using the most advanced tools available to keep you healthy and informed.

Why Choose Prestige Dentistry for VELscope Screening?

As a trusted dental provider in Palm Harbor and Trinity, Prestige Dentistry offers a combination of clinical expertise and cutting-edge technology. Our goal is to provide complete care that supports both your oral and overall health.

Patients choose us for:

  • A compassionate and experienced team
  • Comprehensive, preventive dental services
  • Two convenient locations in Palm Harbor and Trinity
  • A comfortable, patient-centered environment
  • A proactive approach to early disease detection

Your health is our priority, and we’re here to help you make informed decisions about your care every step of the way.

Schedule Your Oral Cancer Screening Today

If it’s been a while since your last oral cancer screening—or if you’ve never had one—now is the time to prioritize your health. A simple, painless VELscope exam could be the first step in catching something early and staying ahead of serious health concerns.

Contact our Palm Harbor or Trinity office to schedule your next appointment. Ask for a VELscope screening during your routine exam, and let’s take a closer look at your health together.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is VELscope screening covered by insurance?

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Coverage varies by plan, but many insurance providers include VELscope screening as part of preventive dental care. We’re happy to check your benefits and help you understand your coverage.

Does VELscope detect cancer?

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VELscope doesn’t diagnose cancer, but it helps identify tissue abnormalities that could indicate precancerous or cancerous changes. Further testing is needed for diagnosis.

How often should I get screened with VELscope?

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We recommend a VELscope screening annually, or more frequently if you’re at higher risk for oral cancer.

Is VELscope safe?

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Yes. VELscope is non-invasive, uses no radiation, and is completely safe for all patients.

What does it feel like?

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VELscope screening is painless. You won’t feel anything as the light is shined into your mouth.

What happens if something abnormal is found?

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If we notice suspicious tissue, we’ll discuss next steps, which may include a biopsy or referral to an oral surgeon or specialist.

Can VELscope detect other oral diseases?

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VELscope can also help identify other abnormal changes in tissue, including infections, trauma, or inflammatory conditions.

Is VELscope necessary if I have no symptoms?

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Yes. Many early signs of oral cancer are not visible or noticeable. VELscope can catch issues early, even in asymptomatic patients.

How long does the screening take?

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The screening takes just 1–2 minutes and is typically included as part of your routine dental exam.

Where can I get VELscope screening in Florida?

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You can schedule a VELscope screening at either of our Prestige Dentistry locations in Palm Harbor or Trinity, FL.

Palm Harbor

Trinity

Office Hours

Monday
7:00 am - 5:00 pm
Tuesday
7:00 am - 5:00 pm
Wednesday
7:00 am - 5:00 pm
Thursday
7:00 am - 5:00 pm
Friday
8:00 am - 3:00 pm