BODY SIGNAL ALERT MOUTH SORES THAT WON’T HEAL

Description and Possible Medical Problems

We all get common but minor oral irritations such as canker sores, abrasions, and cold sores. They’re an annoyance, and we have to avoid certain foods for a few days, but usually they disappear on their own within a week to 10 days. These sores are usually painful.

But what if the sore doesn’t disappear? Or it takes on another form, such as a small whitish bump or lesion anywhere in the mouth? The sore may be cancerous, and early detection and treatment are essential. Oral cancer is one of the most common kinds of cancer. People who smoke and drink alcohol are more prone to oral cancer than those who don’t. Children and young adults are rarely affected, but once you reach midlife, cases of oral cancer can increase significantly.

Treatment

If the sore in your mouth doesn’t heal within three weeks after it first appeared, see your doctor immediately. Sadly, many people with oral cancer who aren’t treated right away do not survive because oral cancer can spread quickly to the nearby lymph nodes and then rapidly to other areas of the body through the lymphatic system. If oral cancer is caught early, however, your doctor will be able to cure you totally.

Tips and Precautions

Most dentists today routinely check for oral cancer. If you’re like most people, you probably put off dental visits past the recommended period of time.

Just as many women regularly check their breasts for tumors or cancerous growths, men and women should get into the habit of examining their mouths for cancer as well. Once a month, you should check for any new lumps or growths on the top, side, and underside of the tongue, as well as on the roof and floor of your mouth and the inside of your cheeks. Also press on your tongue to check for new growths there.