When you think of dentistry, your first thought is probably teeth. However, a dentist is a doctor of the mouth. Our area of expertise includes not only teeth, but also the structure around the mouth and soft tissue such as gums. In fact, one of the most vital – literally lifesaving – services that we provide here at DENTONAL Dental Clinic in Antalya, Turkey, has nothing to do with teeth. We are referring to oral cancer screening.
Why Oral Cancer Screening Is Important
Two facts are true of virtually any type of cancer. First, it has the potential to be deadly. Second, early detection and treatment dramatically increases your chances of survival.
- Early detection – 83 percent if the cancer is diagnosed and treated before it spreads
- Late detection – 38 percent if the cancer has already reached other parts of the body
How Is Standard Oral Cancer Screening Done?
A standard oral cancer screening begins with a visual exam, looking for lumps, red patches, white patches, or sores inside the mouth and on the lower face. Unfortunately, this method cannot detect tumors until they are large enough to see.
