'I'm a dentist - this common winter complaint could be a warning sign of mouth cancer'

A common winter complaint could be a sign of mouth cancer, according to a dentist. Mouth ulcers are common during the colder weather, but it could be something more serious such as oral cancer or Crohn's disease.

Mouth ulcers are usually harmless and fade away within a couple of weeks. However, if yours is lasting for more than three weeks you might want to get it checked out as it could indicate a deeper problem.

Dr Andrej Bozic, an oral surgeon at Dentum, explained: "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 adds that winter often worsens the issue: "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."

Symptoms to look out for:

Though symptoms are not definitive, there are some signs you can look out for so you can act fast.

• 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

Causes of persistent mouth ulcers:

Mouth ulcers are usually caused by temporary irritation by the cold weather, however persistent ulcers could be caused by more serious illnesses.

Oral Cancer:
"One of the early warning signs of oral cancer is a non-healing ulcer," explained Dr. Bozic. "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."

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

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."

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.

For managing mouth ulcers, he recommends simple strategies: "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."

However, if an ulcer persists beyond three weeks or is accompanied by symptoms like difficulty swallowing or a lump in the neck, Dr. Bozic advises caution. "Persistent ulcers are more common during winter, but they should never be ignored. Early diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment."