VELscope® Screening FAQ

Do you have questions about VELscope® or about oral cancer screening in Chicago and Skokie, Illinois? Read our FAQ page! We also invite you to call North Dental Professionals at 773-774-1272. Our team will be happy to provide you with additional information and help you make an appointment with our dentists, Dr. Paul Chaiken or Dr. Robert Kurtz.What is VELscope?
VELscope is an oral disease visualization device and is most frequently used to diagnose oral cancer.

Is VELscope a diagnostic tool?
Yes. Like panoramic X-rays, CT scans or ultrasounds, VELscope is used to capture images of your mouth. Like these imaging technologies, it is not intended to be a stand-alone diagnostic test, but when used in conjunction with standard oral exams, it provides significant visual information to our dentists regarding your oral health.

 

What will my dentist see when using the VELscope?
Our dentists will see fluorescence patterns determine by your underlying physiological structure. Disruptions to these patterns may be an indicator of a lesion or other potential problem.

 

What is tissue fluorescence?
Tissue fluorescence is an optical phenomenon that occurs when light absorbed by human tissue re-emits that light at a different wavelength. This allows our dentists to see things in the tissue that would not otherwise be visible.

 

How long does a VELscope exam take to perform?
Most VELscope exams take about two minutes. Your examination process is both quick and comfortable.

 

Who should administer a VELscope exams?
A VELscope exam can be performed by our dentists or a hygienist, as well as your health care provider.

 

Is VELscope safe?
Yes. VELscope works by shining blue light generated by light emitting diodes into your mouth. It does not involve the use of radiation, chemicals, rinses, dyes or other harmful substances. We do, however, recommend that patients with a history of photosensitivity or who are using photosensitive medications avoid being exposed to the light from VELscope as a precaution.

 

What should I do if VELscope shows a suspicious lesion?
If VELscope shows a potentially cancerous lesion, our dentists should work with you to develop a treatment plan, including a referral to a specialist. This plan should include a biopsy to determine if the lesion is cancerous or not as well as follow-up visits to monitor the progress of your treatment.

 

To find out more, please visit the VELscope product page here.

Providing You With Expert Level Care

We invite you to call our office to set up a consultation with Dr. Paul Chaiken or Dr. Robert Kurtz and learn more about comprehensive dental care in Chicago and Skokie, Illinois, and surrounding areas, including Edgebrook, Forest Glen, Glenview, Jefferson Park, Lincolnwood, Niles, Norwood Park and Wilmette, Illinois. We look forward to helping you care for your smile!

Reviews

Your health and happiness are our first priority, and this approach has helped us earn and maintain an outstanding local reputation. Take a look at what some of our current and previous patients think of the services they’ve received at our Chicago and Skokie locations.

“I give high marks for Dr. Chaiken and his entire dental team. I've been a patient of his for over 25 years now. I've had many cleanings and procedures performed over the years with excellent results. He is very professional and I highly recommend his services. He and his staff are very caring and always dedicated to providing the best dental services possible.”

June K

“Dr. Chaiken and his team at North Dental Professionals are superb! I came to the Chicago location as a new patient because I was in extreme pain. Dr. Chaiken was compassionate and got me out of pain quickly. I needed a root canal and surprisingly it was a great experience. They also take my PPO dental insurance. I will be a patient for life!”

Nicole W

“Great dentist and staff! I have been going there for 30 years. My children went there when at home as well. We have all had great service, careful care of our dental health. The entire staff is warm, welcoming and efficient. Dr. Chaiken is conservative in his work, not pushing for things that are extreme for the situation. My teeth have been healthy and happy. Thank you so much!”

Kathleen M

Locations

Our practices feature experts from various fields of dentistry, ensuring comprehensive care to all patients, supported by advanced in-office equipment that fosters a serene environment for utmost patient comfort

Chicago Location

5953 N Milwaukee Ave Chicago, Il 60646Learn More

Skokie Location

4711 Golf Rd Skokie, IL 60076Learn More
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