A dentist has issued a stark warning that a common winter ailment could be a sign of a serious and potentially deadly condition. The expert warns that a persistent mouth ulcer might be a symptom of oral cancer.
With the arrival of winter’s dry air, it’s not uncommon for people to suffer from mouth ulcers. While most are harmless and clear up within two weeks, those lasting longer than three weeks could indicate a more serious problem, such as cancer or ongoing medical conditions.
Dr Andrej Bozic, an oral surgeon at Dentum, advises that any ulcer lasting for over two weeks should prompt a visit to a healthcare professional. He said: “Most mouth ulcers heal within 10 to 14 days.”
He cautioned that if an ulcer does not clear up in this timeframe, it could be a sign of something more severe, like oral cancer, an autoimmune disorder, or a persistent infection. He also pointed out that the winter season often worsens these issues: “Dehydration and a higher risk of infections during colder months can aggravate mouth ulcers. But any sore that persists shouldn’t be dismissed as seasonal – it’s crucial to have it checked,” reports Surrey Live.
Key symptoms to watch out for include:
- An ulcer that does not heal after three weeks
- Unexplained pain in the mouth or throat
- Red or white patches inside the mouth
- Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or speaking
- A lump or swelling in the neck or jaw
While these symptoms alone do not confirm cancer, Dr Bozic stressed that they should be taken seriously and evaluated by a healthcare provider without delay, as early detection is key.
Dr Bozic warned that persistent ulcers could be a sign of serious underlying health problems. “A non-healing ulcer is one of the early warning signs of oral cancer,” he said.
“Patients often dismiss these as minor injuries, but an ulcer that lasts more than three weeks should be taken seriously. It’s crucial to look for other symptoms like red or white patches or lumps in the mouth.”
Dr Bozic also highlighted the potential connection between these conditions and autoimmune diseases: “These illnesses can lead to chronic ulcers, especially during flare-ups, and require coordinated care between dentists and medical specialists.”
He also pointed to infections as a cause of prolonged mouth sores, particularly for people with weakened immune systems: “The herpes simplex virus is a common culprit. These ulcers can last longer in winter when people’s immune systems are more vulnerable due to stress or other illnesses.”
Dr Bozic also emphasized the role of lifestyle choices in exacerbating the issue: “Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are significant risk factors not only for persistent ulcers but also for their progression to precancerous or cancerous lesions. Poor oral hygiene can worsen these effects.”
In conclusion, Dr Bozic stressed the importance of regular dental check-ups as a preventative measure, stating: “Routine visits can reveal abnormal sores or subtle changes you might overlook,” highlighting their crucial role in early detection of potential issues. He provided simple steps for managing mouth ulcers: “Stay hydrated, avoid irritants like alcohol or acidic foods, and use a mild toothpaste such as Sensodyne. These small changes can have a big impact.”
However, if a sore lasts more than three weeks or is accompanied by symptoms such as difficulty swallowing or a lump in the neck, it’s advised to see a GP.