Mouth ulcers are a common annoyance often dismissed as stress or fatigue, but a radiation oncologist warns they shouldn’t be overlooked if they persist. Dr. Jiri Kubes from the Proton Therapy Center explains that while most ulcers heal within one to two weeks, any that linger beyond three weeks warrant medical evaluation.
“Ulcers frequently appear on the inside of the cheeks, lips, or tongue and usually resolve quickly,” says Dr. Kubes. “However, persistent ulcers—lasting over three weeks—should always prompt a visit to your GP or dentist, as they could be a sign of mouth cancer.”
Ulcers can be caused by minor irritations such as ill-fitting braces, dentures, injuries, or spicy foods, but distinguishing between harmless sores and potential cancer symptoms is crucial. Dr. Kubes also advises monitoring any unusual white or red patches inside the mouth and any persistent lumps or bumps in the mouth or neck.
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Additional warning signs include unexplained mouth pain, difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, persistent bad breath, and unexplained weight loss. “Your mouth should ideally look pink and healthy,” Dr. Kubes points out. “Any unusual changes or discoloration inside your mouth, including on your tongue and lips, need careful attention.”
If mouth cancer is diagnosed, treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. Dr. Kubes emphasizes the benefits of proton beam therapy, a sophisticated form of radiotherapy that targets cancer cells with precision. “Proton therapy allows us to focus radiation on tumors while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues, which is particularly important in the delicate head and neck areas,” he says.
Early detection and timely medical consultation are key. If a mouth ulcer or other symptoms persist beyond three weeks, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice—it could make all the difference.