What is OralID?

OralID® is an adjunctive screening device that uses fluorescence technology to aid clinicians in visualization of oral abnormalities. It is easy to use and non-threatening to patients. Dentists and hygienists can use OralID to increase the efficacy of oral exams without incurring additional per-patient costs. One needs only to wipe it down between uses with a disinfecting wipe.* OralID is battery operated, which means it can be used in multiple operatories.

How To Become A Screening Protocol Expert

We find ourselves asking the question, "what is our protocol for detecting and monitoring suspicious, potentially dangerous lesions in the oral mucosa?" The American Dental Association has set the mandatory protocol for detecting oral lesions as an annual health history review with a visual and tactile examination.

With advancements in technology, we now have the ability to “bring light” to oral abnormalities such as oral cancer and precancer; fluorescence technology can assist in visualizing abnormal lesions that may not be visible with white light. Because OralID is not diagnostic, Forward Science has introduced the OralID Screening Protocol to assist the office in triaging.

The OralID Screening Protocol will help guide us to determine the next steps for our patients.

During the OralID fluorescence screening, we are looking for dark lesions. If you discover any lesions that appear dark or abnormal, experts suggest you re-assess within 2 weeks. Any trauma due to thermal or mechanical damage will have healed by that time.

If the lesion is still present at 2 weeks out and continues to exhibit a loss of fluorescence, we will then move to the next step of the protocol, refer to a specialist. .Typically, the specialist will perform the standard of care incisional biopsy, allowing for a diagnostic result read by a pathologist on what is happening with the tissue. This will help you gain more knowledge regarding a lesion, so we can have a more informed plan of action. Most commonly the reports come back normal, so the patient’s mind will be at ease, but you as the clinician can also rest assured that you provided the best quality care.

So, know your OralID Screening Protocol, your patients need you to!

*The CDC recommends the use of a sheath during standard procedures as best practice.