Question 1

How much does oral cancer screening cost in Brooklyn?

Accepted Answer

Basic visual screening is typically included in routine cleanings at no extra cost. Enhanced screening with VELscope or OralID adds $30-$75 per visit.

Question 2

How often should I get screened for oral cancer?

Accepted Answer

Every 6 months as part of your routine cleaning. Higher-risk patients (smokers, heavy alcohol use, HPV+) should be screened every 3-4 months.

Question 3

What are the signs of oral cancer?

Accepted Answer

Non-healing mouth sores (> 2 weeks), unexplained white or red patches, a lump in the neck, persistent hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, or a feeling that something's caught in the throat.

Question 4

Who is at high risk for oral cancer?

Accepted Answer

Smokers, heavy alcohol users (especially combined), HPV-16 positive, sun exposure (lip cancer), immunosuppressed patients, and anyone 55+ with a history of use.

Question 5

How does VELscope screening work?

Accepted Answer

VELscope uses blue light fluorescence to detect tissue changes invisible to the naked eye. Abnormal tissue appears dark under the light, flagging areas for biopsy.

Question 6

What happens if my dentist finds something suspicious?

Accepted Answer

Small abnormalities are usually re-checked in 2 weeks. Persistent lesions are biopsied — either in-office or by referral to an oral pathologist.

Question 7

Is oral cancer curable?

Accepted Answer

Early-stage oral cancer has 80%+ five-year survival. Late-stage drops to 30%. Regular screening is the single biggest factor in early detection.

Question 8

Does HPV cause oral cancer?

Accepted Answer

HPV-16 is linked to oropharyngeal cancers (back of the throat), now more common than traditional smoking-related oral cancers. The HPV vaccine reduces risk.

Question 9

Can I self-screen for oral cancer?

Accepted Answer

Yes — monthly self-exams in good light help you catch changes. Look for sores, lumps, discolored patches, or asymmetry. Report anything persisting > 2 weeks.

Question 10

Does insurance cover oral cancer screening?

Accepted Answer

Basic screening is bundled with preventive cleanings and covered at 100%. Enhanced fluorescence screening is often an out-of-pocket add-on unless you're high-risk.

Question 11

What's the difference between VELscope and OralID?

Accepted Answer

Both use fluorescence to detect tissue changes. OralID uses a different wavelength and is sometimes more sensitive for white lesions. Your dentist will choose based on training and patient population.

Question 12

Do dentists screen for throat cancer too?

Accepted Answer

Dentists visually check the oropharynx and palpate lymph nodes, but full ENT evaluation requires an otolaryngologist. Symptoms like chronic hoarseness or throat pain warrant referral.

Question 13

Is a biopsy painful?

Accepted Answer

Local anesthesia makes oral biopsies essentially painless. Mild soreness for 2-3 days post-biopsy is normal.

Question 14

Can oral cancer spread?

Accepted Answer

Yes — untreated oral cancer can spread to lymph nodes, then distantly to lungs, liver, or bones. Early detection prevents this.

Question 15

How can I reduce my oral cancer risk?

Accepted Answer

Quit tobacco, limit alcohol, get the HPV vaccine, use lip sunscreen, eat fruits and vegetables, and get regular dental screenings.

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