Oral Cancer Screening in Cornwall, Ontario
Oral cancer can be difficult to notice on your own in its earliest stages. A screening at our Cornwall office is quick, non-invasive and may be completed as part of a routine dental visit. Patients from Cornwall and surrounding Eastern Ontario communities are welcome to ask for screening at any appointment.
Treatment recommendations and outcomes vary based on your oral health, medical history and individual needs. A consultation is required to determine the most appropriate option for you.
VELscope screening
VELscope technology uses a specialized light to help the dental team examine oral tissues for changes that may not be easily visible under regular lighting.
Screening is quick, non-invasive and may be completed as part of a routine dental visit. VELscope may help identify areas that require further assessment. It does not diagnose cancer on its own.
Learn how screening fits into everyday general and family dentistry and the tools described on our technology page.
Signs to watch for
Contact a healthcare professional if you notice:
- A sore that does not heal
- Red or white patches
- A persistent lump or thickened area
- Difficulty swallowing
- Unexplained numbness
- Persistent hoarseness
- Changes in your bite
- Unexplained bleeding
- Ongoing pain in the mouth or throat
How you can lower your oral cancer risk
Oral cancer cannot always be prevented, but certain habits can help reduce risk and support earlier detection.
Consider the following:
- Avoid tobacco products
- Limit alcohol consumption
- Protect your lips from prolonged sun exposure
- Use a lip balm with appropriate UV protection
- Eat a varied and balanced diet
- Attend regular dental examinations
- Report sores, lumps, patches or other changes that do not heal
- Ask about oral cancer screening during routine dental visits
What to expect
There is little to prepare for. We dim the lights, examine your mouth with the screening light and look for tissue that responds differently than surrounding areas. The process usually takes only a few minutes and fits comfortably into a checkup.
If an unusual area is found, that does not automatically mean cancer. It means we look more closely, explain what we see and arrange appropriate follow-up.
Common questions
FAQ
How long does oral cancer screening take?
Most screenings take only a few minutes and can be completed during a regular visit.
Is oral cancer screening painful?
No. VELscope screening uses a special light to examine oral tissues. There is no scraping or cutting involved in the screening itself.
Who should receive screening?
Anyone can benefit from screening. It is especially important if you use tobacco, drink alcohol regularly or notice persistent changes in your mouth. Because early changes can be subtle, screening still matters when your mouth feels fine.
Can screening be completed during a routine visit?
Yes. Many patients simply ask to include screening with their checkup and cleaning.
What happens if an unusual area is found?
Finding an area of concern means we assess further. We will explain what we see, recommend next steps and support you through follow-up or referral if needed.
Does VELscope diagnose oral cancer?
No. VELscope may help identify areas that require further assessment. Diagnosis, when needed, involves additional clinical evaluation and appropriate medical follow-up.
Book your appointment
Ask about oral cancer screening at your next visit. Call Cornwall Dental Arts at (613) 932-2058 or request an appointment online at 806 Pitt Street, Cornwall, ON.