More than 3,400 advanced oral cancer screenings conducted at Aspen Dental practices during Oral Cancer Awareness Month

Aspen Dental, one of the largest and fastest-growing networks of dental care providers in the United States, conducted 3,440 ViziLite® oral cancer screenings at Aspen Dental locations during the month of April, resulting in a $17,200 donation to the Oral Cancer Foundation. The program, which included a $5 donation for each ViziLite® screening conducted, was run throughout the Aspen Dental network, which includes more than 380 practices across 25 states. RELATED |Aspen Dental reminds patients about importance of early detection during Oral Cancer Awareness Month "We are proud to be associated with an organization that makes oral cancer screenings a priority in their practices. The dental professionals of Aspen Dental are agents of change in the oral cancer paradigm; whether in their individual communities or in the country as a whole, their example effects much needed change," said Jamie O'Day, director of operations, the Oral Cancer Foundation. "The Foundation is grateful for our relationship with Aspen Dental and the funds raised will help OCF continue to sponsor research, provide patient support, education, early detection initiatives, and so much more, all related to our mission."RELATED |What the 'rinse-and-spit' oral cancer test could mean for dental professionals and their patientsAccording to The Oral Cancer Foundation, approximately 42,000 Americans will be diagnosed with oral cancer in 2013, the seventh consecutive year where there has been an increase in the rate of oral cancer occurrence. ViziLite® Plus is a specially designed light technology that can help detect cancerous cells. "Unfortunately many patients are not familiar with the risk factors or symptoms that serve as warning signs of oral cancer," said Dr. Jennifer Taylor owner of the Aspen Dental office in Hyannis, Mass. "In April, we met with many patients who were previously unaware of traditional oral cancer screenings, but were eager to have them done and learn more about the risk factors associated with oral cancer. We hope that our efforts this month helped to educate about the importance of detecting the cancer early on, when it is most treatable."To learn more about what to expect during an oral cancer screening, please visit the Oral Cancer Foundation website. To learn more about Aspen Dental, visit their website. SOURCE: PRNewswire