Have you ever noticed an unusual sore or lesion on your lip or inside your mouth? It can be alarming and make you self-conscious about your appearance. While most are nothing more than bothersome canker sores, others can be far more serious and indicate oral cancer. If you’re unsure how to tell the difference between the two, read on to learn what you should look for and when you should seek professional help from your dentist.
What is the Difference Between Canker Sores & Oral Cancer?
Many differences separate canker sores from oral cancer. This is why you need to understand what signs to watch for when one pops up. For example:
- Canker sores tend to be more painful, while those linked to oral cancer are often painless.
- Canker sores are likely to resolve within 1-2 weeks, but those associated with oral cancer will not.
- Canker sores are white or yellow with a red border, but oral cancer sores are red or white.
- Canker sores are small and usually round or oval.
Symptoms of oral cancer, however, often include:
- Bleeding mouth sores
- Mouth numbness
- Thick tissues or lumps inside the mouth
- Sore throat that won’t go away or sounding hoarse when you speak
- Feeling as if there is something caught in your throat
- Jaw stiffness, pain, and swelling
- Loose teeth
- Ill-fitting dentures
When Should You See Your Dentist
Although a sudden visit to your dentist’s office may not be preferred, it’s better to err on the side of caution than let it worsen over time.
As soon as you notice what appears to be a canker sore or oral cancer, don’t wait to schedule an appointment. Your dentist will use advanced technologies to identify the affected tooth and suggest whether additional testing and treatment are required.
If it appears that oral cancer might be the culprit, your dentist will refer you to a local physician for additional evaluation. By seeking professional care right away, you can increase your chances of successful recovery.
About the Author
Dr. Erin Prach earned her dental degree at the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine and has obtained the “Qualified Dentist Designation” from the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine. Completing various courses and training to improve her skills, she and her team work closely with patients to detect abnormal growth and lesions that can be associated with oral cancer. If found during an oral cancer screening, she will recommend further analysis and treatment. However, if it is a canker sore, she can offer laser treatment to address the issue. If you are concerned about your dental health, visit our website or call (307) 337–4770 to schedule an appointment.