A canker sore is a small, round shape that appears on mouth areas such as the gums or cheeks. Canker sores can happen suddenly, and most people find them painful, making daily activities like eating and talking uncomfortable.
Many people wonder if canker sores can signal something more serious. The good news is that there’s no need to worry, as beyond the initial discomfort, canker sores are benign and are not linked to cancer.
However, oral cancer can cause formations inside the mouth. You must know how to differentiate between regular canker sores and oral cancer to seek help immediately. That’s why, in this blog, we’re here to discern the differences between canker sores and oral cancers. Additionally, let’s learn how to identify the signs of cancerous sores. Here’s what you need to know.
How are Canker Sores Different From Oral Cancer?
The similarity that canker sores have with oral cancer is that they both can manifest in the form of sores in the mouth. However, they are fundamentally different in various ways. Canker sores are also known as aphthous ulcers. They are small, oval-shaped lesions that occur on the surface of the soft tissues inside the mouth.
They’re notably painful and heal on their own, usually within one or two weeks. The exact cause of canker sores is not fully understood; however, they may be linked to stress, hormonal changes, certain foods, or nutritional deficiencies.
In contrast, oral cancers are referred to as malignant growths that can occur on any part of the mouth, not just the soft tissue. This could be the lips, gums, tongue, or inner lining of the cheeks. The key difference between oral cancer and canker sores is that oral cancer lesions do not heal and may not be painful initially.
They also differ in appearance as they look like white or red patches on the gums or tongue. Oral cancer causes vary from tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, HPV infection, or prolonged exposure to sunlight.
Signs and Symptoms of a Cancerous Sore
It’s important you know how to identify a cancerous sore. Early detection can prevent the cancer from spreading and worsening to more dire stages. Here’s what you should look out for.
- Persistent Sores
A sore in the mouth that does not heal within two weeks requires evaluation from a dental professional. - White or Red Patches
Oral cancer shows itself through white or red patches, also known as leukoplakia or erythroplakia respectively. These patches indicate the onset of oral cancer. - Lumps or Growths
Any unexplained new lump or mass in the mouth that feels hard to the touch and does not move requires examination. - Difficulty Swallowing
Painful swallowing or a sensation that something is trapped in the throat may indicate an underlying issue. - Swelling
Cancer can cause the jaw, neck, and salivary glands to swell. Hence, it must not be ignored.
To Conclude
Canker sores are usually never a cause for serious concern. However, if you note that something is out of the ordinary and you fear oral cancer may be involved, the best way to know is to visit a dental professional for an examination. Here’s where the team at Lake Elsinore Dentistry can help. We can test for oral cancer and set you on the path to treatment. Schedule an appointment by dialing (951) 579-1010.