Dentist on Demand - DentalBytes
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Explore the fascinating stories of these dental professionals who are at the forefront of this ever-changing field. Their experiences, challenges, and triumphs provide a unique glimpse into the dedication and artistry that goes into creating healthy and beautiful smiles.
Whether you're a dental professional seeking to stay up-to-date with industry advancements or a curious listener interested in the science and artistry of dentistry, our podcast is your gateway to the world of oral health. Join us on this enlightening journey as we celebrate the remarkable individuals from various corners of the dental industry who are pushing the boundaries of dentistry and, ultimately, improving the lives of countless individuals one smile at a time.
Dentist on Demand - DentalBytes
DentalBytes ep. 153 "Wayne Rees: Saving Lives with VELscope"
In this powerful and purpose-driven episode, host Marc Wagner welcomes Wayne Rees, a long-time innovator in dental imaging and the driving force behind the VELscope oral cancer screening system. With over 35,000 units in operation globally, VELscope is transforming how dental practices detect early signs of oral cancer, dysplasia, bacterial load, periodontal disease, and even signs of sleep apnea—using a safe, blue light fluorescence system.
Wayne shares how his journey began over 35 years ago in imaging technology, leading to his current mission: helping clinicians catch disease early and save lives. From partnering with the BC Cancer Agency to collaborating with specialists like Dr. Samson Ng and Dr. Edmund Truelove, Wayne and his team have developed a next-generation VELscope featuring surgical white light, polarized light for clearer images, and seamless integration with mobile devices and second-opinion platforms like OralMedicine.com.
🔍 Key Topics Covered:
VELscope’s clinical evolution and why it’s more than just a cancer detector—it’s a visual guide to better diagnosis.
How the blue light fluorescence works by identifying non-fluorescent (dark) areas that may signal pathology.
Why annual oral cancer screening (or more for high-risk patients) is vital—and how most practices are still falling short.
The growing role of HPV (types 16 & 18) in oral cancer and how rising case numbers (60,000/year in North America) demand proactive care.
New use cases: VELscope for margin delineation during tumor removal surgery, confirmed by BC Cancer’s five-year, double-blinded study.
Real-world success stories where VELscope literally helped save lives—including cases where seasoned dentists discovered oral cancer in their patients for the first time.
The push toward AI-powered diagnostics, with collaborative efforts underway with University of Washington and BC Cancer Agency.
