Dentist warns 'persistent' mouth symptom could be sign of deadly cancer

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 of 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.", reports the Mirror.

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 topic of post-diagnosis procedures, she stated, "treatment recommended will depend on many factors, such as the size, type and position of the cancer". She emphasised the significance of early diagnosis in enhancing survival rates and encouraged people to get any concerning symptoms checked 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 significantly affect the mouth's lining and salivary glands due to their sensitivity to radiation. This can result in reduced saliva production and an imbalance of bacteria in the mouth, leading to problems like dry mouth, tooth decay, mouth sores, and potentially even infections.

Dentists across social media have been highlighting the significance of not ignoring oral health issues. On TikTok, Anna Peterson urged followers to get ulcers checked if they last more than a fortnight.

The comments section was flooded with personal accounts. One user shared: "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 wrote: "I've suffered ulcers for over 10 years, not once has any medical profession ever checked or mentioned mouth", and a third recounted: "My friend's wife had one for three. It was cancer, they caught it early and thankfully she's C free".

While an ulcer doesn't automatically indicate cancer, it's crucial to consult your GP if you have concerns.