The Difference Between Canker Sore VS Mouth Cancer

Did you notice a mouth sore that looks a bit weird? Are you sure it is a regular mouth sore and not a sign of mouth cancer? Let us find out the different kinds of mouth sores and differentiate each from the other. To make sure, after reading this article, take a trip to the dentist and let him evaluate if your mouth sore is a canker sore vs mouth cancer.

Mouth sores quick facts

• Most mouth sores are not dangerous and are recurring or chronic in nature.
• There are so many medical conditions that cause mouth sores and most of them look alike so differentiation is a bit tricky.
• It goes away on its own sometimes within 1-2 weeks, but one should inform the doctor if his mouth sores last for more than 3 weeks.

What are the types of mouth sores?

Cold sore. Fluid-filled blister-like sores on mouth and lips.

Leukoplakia or keratosis. Hairy white patches on the tongue and the inside of the mouth that looks furry or scaly in nature.

Gingivomastitis. Sores in mouth and gums that are often seen in children accompanied by flu-like symptoms.

Canker sores. Also called aphthous stomatitis or aphthous ulcers that appear red, white, or yellowish in color. It is related to diseases like Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, or HIV.

Oral thrush. Whitish patches of sores all over the mouth caused by yeast infection common usually in children.

Herpetiform ulcers. Aphthous ulcers that are associated with a herpes infection.

Differences between a mouth sore and a mouth cancer sore

There are many distinguishing characteristics that we can think of when it comes to differentiating a regular canker sore and a mouth sore.

• Mouth ulcers like canker sores are painful; sores from mouth cancer typically aren’t.
• Most mouth ulcers will resolve in a matter of 2 weeks, though some are recurring quickly. On the other hand, mouth cancer sores will not go away and will often spread.
• Typical mouth sores can be removed easily; cancerous mouth sores and patches may look coarse and difficult to scuff or rub off.
• Mouth cancer is often linked to alcoholism or tobacco use.

 

What to do at the sign of mouth cancer

If you are really worried that what you have maybe a sign of mouth cancer, there is no harm in visiting your primary care physician and having him look and evaluate your mouth sore. He has the expertise and knowledge if it is indeed an early or late symptom of cancer and may transfer your care to an oncologist who specializes in diagnosis and treatment of cancer.