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Oral Cancer Screening in Spearfish, SD
Early Detection That Could Save Your Life
At Orchard Meadows Family Dental & Denture Clinic in Spearfish, we believe that preventive care is about more than just teeth — it’s about total wellness. That’s why every comprehensive exam includes a gentle, thorough oral cancer screening. Using advanced tools like VELscope® technology, our team can detect abnormalities that may be invisible to the naked eye, giving our patients the best chance at early diagnosis and peace of mind.
Our smaller, close-knit Spearfish team takes the time to ensure each patient receives focused, one-on-one care — and that includes helping you stay ahead of serious health risks with routine screenings.
What Is Oral Cancer Screening?
Oral cancer screening is a quick, non-invasive part of your routine dental exam. It involves a visual and tactile check of your lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, throat, and the roof and floor of your mouth. We look for any unusual spots, sores, lumps, or color changes that could be early signs of oral cancer or other conditions.
What makes our screenings different is the use of VELscope®, a specialized light that enhances our ability to detect tissue changes well before they’re visible under normal lighting.
Why We Use VELscope® Technology
VELscope® is a safe, handheld device that emits a blue-spectrum light into the mouth, highlighting abnormal tissues through fluorescence. Healthy tissues reflect this light differently than potentially problematic areas, allowing us to identify concerns early — even before symptoms appear.
This painless, radiation-free screening tool allows us to:
- Detect changes in soft tissue at the cellular level
- Identify potentially cancerous or precancerous lesions sooner
- Monitor suspicious areas over time for any progression
- Provide accurate referrals when further evaluation is needed
By incorporating VELscope® into your standard exam and cleaning visit, we add another layer of protection to your health — without adding time or discomfort to your appointment.
Who Should Be Screened?
Oral cancer can affect anyone, but certain risk factors make screening especially important:
- Adults over 40
- Tobacco or alcohol use (past or present)
- Prolonged sun exposure (linked to lip cancer)
- HPV infection
- A history of oral cancer in the family
Even if you don’t have risk factors, we believe in being proactive. Our approach in Spearfish is rooted in community care and prevention — we’d rather check early and often than miss something that could become serious.
Integrated Preventive Care for Your Whole Health
Oral cancer screenings are part of our broader preventive care philosophy, alongside treatments like fluoride application, dental sealants, and patient education. At our Spearfish location, we pride ourselves on providing this care in a setting that’s warm, familiar, and grounded in genuine relationships.
Our smaller team means you won’t get lost in a busy clinic — you’ll see the same friendly faces who know your history and care about your well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the oral cancer screening part of my regular dental exam?
Yes, we include oral cancer screening with every routine exam and cleaning at no additional cost.
What does the VELscope® device do?
VELscope® uses safe blue-spectrum light to reveal changes in oral tissue that may not be visible otherwise. It enhances our ability to detect concerns early.
Does the screening hurt?
Not at all. The exam is non-invasive, pain-free, and typically takes just a few minutes.
What happens if you find something unusual?
If we notice an area of concern, we may recommend a follow-up visit, additional imaging, or a referral to a specialist for biopsy or further evaluation.
Is oral cancer really that common?
Oral cancer is one of the more serious and potentially deadly cancers — but it’s also highly treatable when caught early. That’s why regular screening is so important.
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Located in Spearfish, SD
Schedule an Oral Cancer Screening in Spearfish
Protecting your health starts with early detection. Our team in Spearfish is committed to providing proactive, compassionate care using today’s best tools — including VELscope® technology. If it’s time for your next checkup, let’s make sure your whole health is covered.