Doctor warns mouth symptom which keeps appearing could be cancer sign
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A dentist has highlighted a common symptom that could be a sign of mouth cancer - ulcers. November is Mouth Cancer Action Month, an initiative led by the Oral Health Foundation to raise awareness about mouth cancer and stress the importance of being "mouth aware".
The Mouth Cancer Foundation has reported a 34% increase in mouth cancer cases in the UK. With this in mind, Dr Nyree Whitley, chief clinical officer and practising dentist at mydentist, has shared several signs and symptoms to look out for, as well as how cancer treatments might affect your oral health.
According to Dr Whitley, mouth cancer, also known as oral cancer, can affect any part of the mouth and any age group. She said: "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."
Symptoms to watch out for are wide ranging, with the common ailment of ulcers being one of them - especially one that is persistent.
The full list includes:
- an ulcer that lasts for more than three weeks
- red or white patches within your mouth
- 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
Whitley continued: "Generally, mouth cancer can affect anyone, but alcohol and tobacco use, including chewing tobacco, do increase the chances of developing oral cancer. Early detection is key to improving survival rates for those contracting oral cancers, so if you are experiencing any issues or symptoms, it's important that you get checked out as soon as possible."
The dentist also advised: "There is a chance that they may have a normal explanation, but if you feel concerned or you notice anything that feels out of the ordinary for you, then you should visit your local dentist for a check-up so that they can offer you a professional evaluation."
On the subject of what happens after a diagnosis, she noted, "treatment recommended will depend on many factors, such as the size, type and position of the cancer". She reiterated the importance of early diagnosis in improving survival rates and urged individuals to get any worrying symptoms examined without delay.
Dr Whitley added: "There is a chance that they may have a normal explanation, but if you feel concerned or you notice anything that feels out of the ordinary for you, then you should visit your local dentist for a check-up so that they can offer you a professional evaluation.
"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."
Treatments for cancer, such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy, can have a significant impact on the lining of the mouth and salivary glands, given their sensitivity to radiation. This can lead to a reduction in saliva production and an imbalance of bacteria in the mouth, resulting in issues like dry mouth, tooth decay, mouth sores, and potentially even infections.
Dentists on social media platforms have also stressed the importance of addressing oral health concerns. Anna Peterson advised users on TikTok to have ulcers checked if they persist for more than two weeks.
Many shared their personal experiences in the comments section. One individual commented: "Omg. My doctor's brushed my year long tongue covering ulcers off saying it's a vitamin deficiency. They were there for an entire year. I couldn't eat or drink anything with flavour. I'm scared."
Another person mentioned: "I've suffered ulcers for over 10 years, not once has any medical profession ever checked or mentioned mouth", while a third person shared: "My friend's wife had one for three. It was cancer, they caught it early and thankfully she's C free".
It's important to note that an ulcer doesn't mean you have cancer. But if you're worried, speak to your GP.
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