Oral Cancer Exam
According to the American Cancer Society, over 30,000 cases of oral cancer are diagnosed each year, with over 7000 of these cases resulting in the death of the patient. Fortunately, oral cancer can be diagnosed with an annual cancer exam provided by Dr. Turner. If caught early, oral cancer can be effectively treated.
Oral cancer is a pathologic process, which begins by producing no symptoms making it hard to recognize without an exam. There are many types of oral cancer, including teratoma, adenocarcinoma and melanoma. The most common form of oral cancer is malignant squamous cell carcinoma, which typically originates in the lip and mouth tissue. There are many other places in which oral cancers occur, including: the tongue, salivary glands, throat, gums, and face.
Contact our office today to schedule an appointment!
North Andover Office
North Andover Office Phone Number 978-975-1233 Email Us
What to Expect
The oral cancer examination is completely painless. Dr. Turner will look for abnormalities and feel the face, glands, and neck for unusual bumps. Lasers may be used to highlight pathologic changes, and can “look” below the surface for spots and lesions invisible to the naked eye. Some of the signs that will be investigated are red patches and sores. Red patches on the floor of the mouth, or the front of the tongue, and bleeding sores which fail to heal easier, can be indicative of cancerous changes. Leukoplakia is a hardened white or gray, slightly raised lesion that can appear inside the mouth, and may be cancerous. Signs of these will be examined as well. Finally, soreness, lumps or the general thickening of tissue anywhere in the throat or mouth can signal pathologic signs, and will be examined.
If abnormalities, lesions, lumps, or leukoplakia are apparent, Dr. Turner will implement a treatment plan that is right for you. Treatment options vary according to the precise diagnosis, but may include: excision, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.
It is also important to note that over 75% of oral cancers are linked with avoidable behaviors such as smoking, tobacco use, and excessive alcohol consumption. Dr. Turner can provide you with literature and options about quitting dangerous behaviors such as tobacco use.
The Practice of Dr. Ian Turner
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
absolutely the best dental care.
- jim o
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Very pleasant office and staff along with Dr. Turner
- Diane A
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I initially found Dr. Ian Turner through an online search for a specific laser procedure for periodontal disease. I am so glad I found this office. Dr. Turner is extremely thorough and takes time to explain things and ease any anxiety you might have. After the procedure, all the follow-up appointments were just as good. The rest of the staff are super friendly but more importantly, very skilled. If you are considering becoming a patient at this dental practice, rest assured you're in very good hands.
- Paul M
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Dr. Turner's office is the best and most caring!
- Justin A
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
The doctor and staff are the top rated as far as their skills. Very informative when explaining a procedure. I always feel that they sincerely care for their patients.
- Victor Pierimarchi P
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Dr. Turner and staff are extremely thorough, thoughtful, and effective in their treatment. Truly means a lot to have a dental surgeon whose advice and work I trust.
- J Y
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Very professional and helpful
- Matthew A
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I have seen Dr. Turner for 2 implants about 5 years apart. He is extremely proficient with his surgery. He takes the time to explain each step of the procedure and answers any and all questions in easy to understand terms. I highly recommend Dr. Turner.
- Neil G
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
My teeth were SHIFTING! I had root canals in the front, elongated teeth on the bottom and noticed bleeding when flossing and brushing. I put the dentist off for A LONG TIME. I thought that just because my teeth were white and straight that my mouth was healthy. I was very wrong. I never had pain and honestly never saw that my gums appeared red. It wasn’t until I took a picture of my teeth and compared to previous pictures. They were shifting at a rapid rate, over the course of just 4 months. That was it! … I researched my symptoms and realized I WAS GOING TO LOSE MY TEETH IF I WAITED! I found Dr. Ian M. Turner was the ONLY one in the area who did the LANAP laser surgery. PHEW! A less invasive option, which minimized my fear! When I called the office for my first visit, Victoria accommodated my every need. She even called me back to get me in sooner, knowing my urgent request! Andrea made me feel right at home! She took my X-rays with ease and made me feel so comfortable! Dr. Ian Turner reassured me I was going to be okay! He is a master at what he does, very intelligent, but MOST OF ALL… he is caring! He goes out of his way to check on his patients! The entire crew is spectacular, top notch 5 star customer service full of compassion for their patients! The entire facility is extremely clean - not an ounce of dust! My FULL trust goes into their hands! Dr. Ian Turner SAVED MY SMILE… Special thanks to him and the team for all they do!
- Laura R
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
This is a great place. Staff is friendly and the work is done well.
- David J
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Highly recommend Dr. Turner. Very professional and kind with patients. His work is top rated!
- Carol H
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
comments above
- marie G
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Excellent
- maryruth r
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I highly recommend Dr. Turner to anyone who needs periodontics' work.
- Michele C
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
very friendly, explained procedure well, great results!
- Mary B
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
The entire staff and Dr. Turner made my dental experience exceptional and took care of all of my needs.
- Debra L
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Always very professional and efficient
- Gary L
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
This office is so warm and caring. Not one bit nervous because I know I am in good hands.
- Marie W
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Would definitely recommend to all my family and friends in the area. Dr. Turner is great and his staff are very friendly.
- Chelsea V
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
From the Doctor to the Staff all the Team are in sync on my Dental Care! Love it!
- RON M