Dentist says common winter ailment could be sign of mouth cancer

A common winter health gripe often brushed off could be a red flag for mouth cancer, a dental expert has warned. Mouth ulcers are frequent during the chillier months, yet they might point to something more sinister such as oral cancer or Crohn's disease.

Ordinarily, mouth ulcers are benign and resolve within a fortnight. But if you notice one sticking around for over three weeks, it's advisable to get it professionally examined as this could signal an underlying issue.

Dr Andrej Bozic, an oral surgeon at Dentum, cautions: "Most mouth ulcers heal within 10 to 14 days. If a sore lingers beyond that, it could indicate something more serious, such as oral cancer, an autoimmune disease, or a chronic infection."

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He also mentions that winter can exacerbate the condition, saying: "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."

Signs to be watchful for include:

Although no symptom is conclusive, several indicators should prompt swift action. An ulcer not healing after three weeks, unexplained pain in the mouth or throat, red or white spots within the mouth, troubles with chewing, swallowing, or speaking, and any unexpected lump or swelling in the neck or jaw region need attention.

Persistent mouth ulcers can arise from temporary irritations due to the cold, but enduring ones might suggest more severe conditions.

1. Oral Cancer:

Dr. Bozic explained, "One of the early warning signs of oral cancer is a non-healing ulcer. These are often mistaken for minor injuries, but any ulcer persisting for more than three weeks should be taken seriously. Other symptoms to watch for include red or white patches or lumps in the mouth."

2. Autoimmune Diseases:

Systemic conditions like lupus or Crohn’s disease can also cause chronic ulcers. Dr. Bozic noted, "These conditions often lead to recurring ulcers, particularly during flare-ups. Effective management requires collaboration between dentists and medical specialists."

3. Infections:

Chronic sores may result from viral infections, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems. "The herpes simplex virus is a common cause," said Dr. Bozic.

"These ulcers tend to linger longer during winter when immune systems are often compromised by stress or illness."

4. Lifestyle Factors:

"Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are major contributors to persistent ulcers," emphasized Dr. Bozic. "They not only delay healing but also increase the risk of these ulcers developing into precancerous or cancerous lesions. Poor oral hygiene further exacerbates these effects."

Dr. Bozic emphasizes the value of regular dental check-ups for early detection of potential issues. "Routine visits can help identify abnormal sores or subtle changes that might go unnoticed," he explained.

He offers straightforward advice for dealing with mouth ulcers, stating: "Keep hydrated, steer clear of irritants like alcohol or acidic foods, and opt for a gentle toothpaste such as Sensodyne. These small adjustments can make a significant difference."

Nevertheless, Dr. Bozic cautions against taking persistent ulcers lightly, especially if they are coupled with troubling symptoms such as trouble swallowing or a neck lump. "Persistent ulcers are more common during winter, but they should never be ignored. Early diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment."