Oral health is often neglected in our country. Tobacco chewers, smokers, alcohol users, those with missing teeth, and those with poor oral hygiene should be especially vigilant.

Oral cancer warning

Small mouth sores, white or red patches, and mild pain are often dismissed as minor. In most cases, they are attributed to stress, dental problems, or a normal infection. However, according to doctors, if these sores or patches don't heal within two weeks, they could be an early warning sign of oral cancer. Lack of awareness and habits often keep this disease hidden, leading to delays in treatment. So, let's explain how small mouth sores can be a warning sign of cancer. 

Why is oral cancer ignored?

In the early stages of oral cancer, its symptoms are often mild. In fact, symptoms like a mouth ulcer that doesn't heal, white or red spots, and mild pain or burning are often overlooked. Furthermore, because of the association between habits like chewing tobacco, smoking, and alcohol consumption, many people don't speak openly to their doctors. This is why the disease often becomes apparent only after it has progressed.

Who needs to be more cautious?

According to doctors, oral health is often neglected in our country. Tobacco chewers, smokers, alcohol users, those with broken teeth, and those with poor oral hygiene should be especially vigilant. If a sore or patch in the mouth doesn't heal within two weeks or begins to grow, it's important to get it checked immediately. Furthermore, doctors say that patches and sores in the mouth can take several forms: small, painful blisters that usually heal within one to two weeks; white patches on the mouth, gums, or tongue that don't go away after rubbing; white, mesh-like patches or sores that can cause irritation; and red patches that may bleed, which are considered more dangerous. 

When can there be danger?

Most mouth ulcers are caused by injury, stress, vitamin deficiencies, or infections and resolve with normal treatment. However, in some cases, they can be a sign of a serious illness. Ulcers that persist for more than two weeks may be a sign of oral cancer. Leukoplakia and erythroplakia are also considered precancerous in many cases. Some lesions may also be associated with diabetes, HIV, or autoimmune diseases.

When to contact a doctor?

If mouth ulcers or patches recur, are painful, or persist for a long time, it is important to consult a doctor. Especially if the sores do not heal for more than two weeks, there is a lump, blood, or persistent pain in the mouth, difficulty swallowing, chewing, or speaking, and the lymph nodes in the neck become swollen, a doctor should be consulted.