According to the American Cancer Society, more than 30,000 new cases of oral cancer will be diagnosed in the U.S. this year. Local dentists are trying to get a jump on oral cancer with FDA approved technology that's getting a glowing recommendation.

"I like to know. I like to be on top of my health and my dental hygiene," said Brian Compton.

Which is why Compton says he worries about oral cancer, but he's thankful his dentist Doctor Kathrina Agatep at Dental Design Spa does, as well.

Nowadays, in 2006, it's not so much drilling and filling of a tooth anymore, it's simply looking at everything else," said Doctor Agatep.

That includes oral cancer which may be caused by tobacco use, alcohol and sun exposure, among other things.

Screenings for the cancer are part of a routine dental examination, because the earlier the cancer is detected, the better. But dentists like Doctor Agatep are taking the examination a step further.

"There are a lot of things that the naked eye can not see and with this ViziLite it enables us to see every little detail," continued Doctor Agatep.

To help detect abnormalities in a patient's mouth early on, Doctor Agatep uses the FDA approved technology called VizilLite.

"The test is actually very simple. It's a non-invasive, painless procedure," described Doctor Agatep

Patients first rinse with a cleaning solution for at least 30y seconds. Then, the overhead lighting is dimmed and Doctor Agatep uses a specially designed light technology to look for any problems.

"By using this light, anything abnormal will actually come out to be, will come out to be illuminated," Doctor Agatep said.

Today, Compton gets the good news that no abnormalities were revealed. He says ViziLite is a simple test that brings him great comfort.

It's done quickly, painlessly and you're in and out and you have that peace of mind," Compton noted.

ViziLite may not be covered by all insurance companies, so talk to your dentist ahead of time.