Persistent Mouth Sores: Causes and Concerns

A mouth ulcer that has not healed for several years?

May I ask the doctor a few questions? My father has a long history of drinking alcohol and smoking, and he also chewed betel nut when he was younger.
He discovered a sore in his mouth several years ago, but he refuses to see a doctor.
I would like to ask the doctor why his sore hasn't healed.
Could it be cancer or some other serious illness? Additionally, it seems that he has multiple sores in his mouth, not just one.
Thank you for your response, doctor.

Hezi, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/07/25

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

If there are persistent sores (commonly referred to as ulcers) in the mouth that do not heal over a long period and multiple lesions are present, it is more likely to be due to oral mucosal abnormalities or a deficiency in balanced nutrition for the oral mucosa.
It is advisable to consult a dentist for further evaluation and treatment.

Reply Date: 2015/07/25

More Info

Persistent mouth sores can be a concerning issue, especially in individuals with a history of smoking, alcohol consumption, and betel nut chewing, as these habits can significantly increase the risk of oral health problems, including cancers. Your father's situation, where he has had mouth sores for several years without seeking medical attention, raises several important points that need to be addressed.

Firstly, the presence of persistent sores in the mouth can be indicative of various underlying conditions. These can range from benign issues such as canker sores or oral lichen planus to more serious conditions like oral cancer. The fact that your father has a history of risk factors, including smoking and alcohol use, makes it particularly important to consider the possibility of malignancy. Oral cancer can present as non-healing ulcers or sores in the mouth, and it is crucial to have any persistent lesions evaluated by a healthcare professional.

The reasons why these sores may not be healing could include:
1. Chronic Irritation: Continuous exposure to irritants such as tobacco and alcohol can prevent healing. These substances can cause inflammation and damage to the oral mucosa, leading to persistent sores.

2. Infection: Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections can also cause sores that do not heal. For example, a fungal infection like oral thrush can lead to white patches and soreness in the mouth.

3. Nutritional Deficiencies: Deficiencies in vitamins, particularly B vitamins, vitamin C, and minerals like iron, can contribute to the development of mouth sores and hinder healing.

4. Underlying Health Conditions: Conditions such as autoimmune diseases, diabetes, or other systemic illnesses can also manifest as oral lesions and affect healing.

5. Oral Cancer: As mentioned earlier, the risk of oral cancer is significantly increased in individuals with a history of tobacco and alcohol use. Non-healing ulcers, especially those that are painful or have irregular borders, should be evaluated for malignancy.

Given these considerations, it is essential for your father to seek medical attention. A thorough examination by a dentist or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist is warranted. They may perform a biopsy of the sore to rule out cancer or other serious conditions. Early detection is key in managing any potential malignancies, and the prognosis is often much better when cancers are caught early.

In the meantime, encouraging your father to adopt healthier habits, such as quitting smoking and reducing alcohol consumption, can significantly improve his overall oral health and reduce the risk of further complications. Additionally, maintaining good oral hygiene, including regular dental check-ups, can help manage and prevent oral health issues.

In conclusion, while there are various potential causes for your father's persistent mouth sores, the combination of his lifestyle factors and the duration of the symptoms necessitates a professional evaluation. It is crucial to address these concerns promptly to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.

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