Oral cancer screenings at river oaks dental saves lives
Each year, nearly half a million people are diagnosed with Oral Cancer worldwide. Within 5 years of diagnosis, oral cancer will claim more than 40% of those lives. The remaining 60% may carry the lifetime effects, such as loss of portions of the tongue, difficulty swallowing, tooth loss, chronic dry mouth, and the need for major reconstructive surgery and prostheses.
The high mortality rate of oral cancer is largely due to the diagnosis being made in late stages, when the cancer has already spread. When detected early, 5 year survival rates are high, between 70-90%.
The good news is that oral cancer is not hard to detect. Screenings are inexpensive, painless, non-invasive, and fast! Ask Dr. Monteiro for more information at your next visit!