A leading dental expert has issued an urgent health warning, stating that a common mouth symptom often dismissed as minor could be a sign of something far more serious.
Dr Andrej Bozic, an oral surgeon at Dentum in Croatia, which treats hundreds of British patients every year, emphasises that while mouth ulcers are typically harmless, any sore that persists for more than two weeks demands immediate medical attention.
The Critical 'Red Flag' Symptom
"Most ulcers are harmless and clear up within a week or two," Dr Bozic explained. "However, if an ulcer persists, starts bleeding, or repeatedly returns to the same spot, it's a red flag that should not be dismissed."
He highlighted that the temptation is often to wait and see if it heals, especially as these early signs can be painless. Yet, early detection is critical for a successful outcome.
Why Persistent Sores Pose a Serious Threat
Although the majority of mouth ulcers are caused by stress, friction, or accidentally biting the cheek, stubborn sores can occasionally indicate early-stage oral or throat cancer.
This risk is significantly higher for individuals who smoke, are heavy drinkers, or have the human papillomavirus (HPV). Concerningly, rates of these cancers are climbing dramatically across the UK.
According to the Oral Health Foundation, cases of mouth cancer have doubled in the past two decades. Furthermore, HPV-related throat cancers are now among the fastest-growing cancer types, particularly affecting men.
Key Warning Signs You Must Not Ignore
Dr Bozic stressed that anyone should seek an immediate check-up if they notice any of the following symptoms inside their mouth:
- An ulcer that does not heal after two weeks.
- White or red patches on the soft tissues.
- Unusual lumps or thickened areas.
- Persistent hoarseness or a sore throat.
- Any area that bleeds unexpectedly or feels numb.
"If you notice any of these symptoms, don't wait for it to hurt," he advised. "Early detection gives the very best chance of a full recovery."
Simple Steps for Protection and Early Detection
One of the simplest ways to safeguard your health is by attending regular six-monthly dental check-ups. "Your dentist isn't only checking for cavities," Dr Bozic stated. "We are also specifically trained to spot the early signs of cancer, infections, and other systemic diseases that can first appear inside the mouth."
He also recommends maintaining good oral hygiene, avoiding all tobacco products, and limiting alcohol consumption, as these are major risk factors. Additionally, ensuring young people receive the HPV vaccination is a key preventative measure.
"The vast majority of ulcers are nothing to worry about," Dr Bozic concluded. "But if one refuses to heal, don't adopt a 'wait and see' approach. Getting it checked promptly could save your life."
