'I'm a dentist - anyone who vapes or smokes needs to watch out for four worrying signs'

A dentist has shared four signs anyone who smokes or vapes needs to look out for, as they could be symptoms of something more sinister.

In the wake of a recent study which revealed smoking could cause 300,000 cancer cases in the UK by 2029, Dr Nyree Whitley, chief clinical officer and practising dentist at mydentist, has issued guidance and advice for smokers regarding their oral health.

Dr Whitley has also issued a warning to anyone who uses nicotine-based products such as Snus, vapes, and nicotine pouches. She said: “It’s important to know that any nicotine-based product can have detrimental effects on your oral health – this includes cigarettes, vapes, Snus and nicotine pouches.”

Though the long-term effects of vaping are relatively unknown, she still cautioned being aware of the effects tobacco-based products can have on people. “Tobacco in any form can lead to life-altering conditions such as mouth cancer, gum disease, and other oral health issues such as discolouration of teeth,” she explained.

It can also contribute, over time, to receding gums and gum disease so the dentist urges anyone who smokes to keep a close eye on their oral health, and regularly “check your mouth for signs of any changes to your gums, tongue, or teeth”.

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Dr Whitley continued: “The four key signs to watch out for are recurring or persistent ulcers, red or white patches in your mouth, bleeding gums, or changes on your teeth such as staining.”

Other symptoms include “lumps either within your mouth or on your lips, swollen glands, any pains in the mouth, difficulty swallowing, speaking, or a feeling of having a lump in your throat”.

She said: “These could all be signs of conditions such as mouth cancer or gum disease and you should contact your dentist as soon as possible so that they can invite you for a check-up to provide you with tailored guidance and, where needed, treatment options.”

Once gum disease has set in and “become apparent”, Dr Whitley warns it can be “more difficult to reverse these side effects” and advises anyone with concerns to visit their dentist “for tailored advice and support”.

The dentist, who has more than 20 years’ experience of clinical practice, states smokers are “at much higher risk of developing mouth cancer and gum disease” and “early detection” is key for treatment.

Dr Whitley added: “With cases of mouth cancer increasing in the UK, I’d strongly advise anyone who does smoke to ensure that where possible, they continue with their routine dental check-ups – even if they think they are okay and not experiencing any symptoms, as your dentist will be well placed to spot any early signs that could appear.

“Mouth cancer, also referred to as oral cancer, can affect any part of the mouth and any age group. The severity of it can depend on how quickly it is spotted, how far it has spread, how big it is and the individual’s overall health.”

The dentist reiterated “early detection is key to improving survival rates” for those contracting mouth cancers. There’s a chance they may have a “normal” explanation but it’s still best to get any symptoms checked out promptly.

Dr Whitley concluded: “My advice is to visit your dentist as regularly as possible, as they will screen for oral cancer as part of your routine check-up. If you are concerned, then your dentist will be well placed to provide you with guidance and support.”

Dr Shaadi Manouchehri shared similar advice in a popular TikTok video, where people were keen to share their thoughts. One person commented: “Interesting! Is it possible to see these things yourself or is a visit required?” While others simply thanked the dentist for the information.