What Is the Difference Between a Mouth Ulcer and Mouth Cancer?

Mouth ulcers and oral cancer can look similar at first. Both can cause discomfort, and both affect how you eat, drink, and talk. But they are very different conditions. One heals quickly, while the other can be life-threatening if left untreated. Knowing the difference between mouth ulcer and cancer can help you take the right steps for your health.

Mouth Ulcer vs. Cancer: What’s the Difference?

Both mouth ulcers and oral cancer can cause sores inside the mouth and the need for emergency dentist Seattle. But there’s a difference between mouth ulcer and cancer:

Appearance

• Mouth ulcers may appear as small, round, or oval sores with a red border and a white or yellowish center. They are often shallow and may be painful but usually heal within 1–2 weeks.

• Oral cancer may be a persistent sore, lump, or growth in the mouth that doesn’t heal. The area may be white, red, or have a mix of both colors. It may also present as a hard or raised patch, a bleeding wound, or a thickened area.

Duration

• Mouth ulcer usually heals within 1–2 weeks, and symptoms resolve completely.

• Oral cancer persists for weeks or even months and does not heal. It often worsens over time, and symptoms may spread to nearby tissues.

Pain

• Mouth ulcers are painful, especially when eating, drinking, or talking, but the pain generally decreases as it heals.

• Oral cancer can be painless at first, but as it progresses, it may become painful. The pain might be felt to the jaw, ear, or neck.

Size and Growth

• Mouth ulcers are generally small and do not change significantly in size or spread.

• Oral cancer may grow larger, spread, and form hard lumps that can be felt under the skin. It may also spread to the lymph nodes or other parts of the body.

Causes

• Mouth ulcers are commonly caused by injury (like biting your cheek), stress, certain foods, vitamin deficiencies, or infections.

• Oral cancer is usually linked to risk factors like smoking, excessive alcohol use, HPV infection, or a family history of cancer. Poor oral hygiene can also contribute to increased risk.

Symptoms

• Mouth ulcer symptoms are generally localized to the sore itself. Swelling and redness are common around the ulcer.

• Oral cancer may have additional symptoms such as unexplained weight loss, difficulty swallowing or chewing, persistent sore throat, ear pain, and bad breath.

Treatment

• Mouth ulcers are usually treated with over-the-counter topical ointments, mouth rinses, or pain relievers. They generally heal on their own.

• Oral cancer requires medical attention. Treatment may involve surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination, based on the stage and severity.

How Do I Know If I Have Mouth Cancer or an Ulcer?

Aside from the difference between mouth ulcers and cancer, you need to know how to know if you have them:

Mouth ulcers are often easy to diagnose. A visit to your dentist or doctor is the best way to confirm if it’s just an ulcer. They will examine your mouth to check the size, shape, and healing process of the sore. In most cases, they’ll just ask about your symptoms, like if you’ve had stress, a recent injury, or certain foods that might trigger it. If it’s a simple ulcer, they will likely tell you it should heal on its own in a couple of weeks.

Mouth cancer is more serious, and early detection is key. If you have a sore or lump that doesn’t heal, a doctor will likely do a physical exam. They will check the size, texture, and movement of the area. To be sure, your doctor may suggest a biopsy. This involves taking a small sample of tissue from the suspicious area and sending it for lab testing. They may also recommend imaging tests, like X-rays or CT scans, to check if the cancer has spread.

Can Mouth Ulcers Be Mistaken for Cancer?

Yes, regardless if they last a long time or don’t heal properly. Some ulcers can look suspicious, especially if they are large, have irregular edges, or keep coming back in the same spot. A doctor or dentist can examine the sore and see the difference between mouth ulcer and cancers to determine whether further testing is needed.

Are Canker Sores a Sign of Cancer?

Canker sores are not linked to cancer. They are a common condition caused by stress, minor injuries, or certain foods. However, a sore that does not heal keeps getting worse or appears with other symptoms should be checked by a professional. That’s how the difference between mouth ulcers and cancer can be determined.

Are There Other Conditions That Can Cause Ulcers Inside the Mouth?

Yes! Several conditions can lead to sores inside the mouth:

• Cold Sores: These are caused by the herpes virus and usually appear outside the mouth, often on the lips. Unlike canker sores, they are contagious.

• Nutritional Deficiencies: Low levels of vitamin B12, iron, or zinc can cause recurring mouth ulcers.

• Autoimmune Disorders: Conditions like lupus or celiac disease can cause ulcers.

• Oral Thrush: A fungal infection that leads to white patches inside the mouth.

• Lichen Planus: A chronic condition that causes white, lacy patches in the mouth.

If ulcers appear often or come with other health problems, talk to our Kirkland emergency dentist to check for the differences between mouth ulcer and cancer.

When to Get a Cancer Screening?

A sore in your mouth that lasts longer than two weeks needs medical attention. Other signs that you should see a doctor include:

• A lump or thickening in your cheek

• Difficulty swallowing or speaking

• A sore throat that won’t go away

• Unexplained bleeding in the mouth

• Numbness in the tongue or lips

A dentist can perform an oral cancer screening to ensure the difference between mouth ulcer and cancer and recommend further tests if needed.

Ulcers Treatment and Cancer Screening in Kirkland, Washington

At Kirkland Dental Excellence, we care about your oral health. If you have a sore that won’t heal, don’t wait. Early ulcer detection and cancer screening save lives. If you’re unsure about a sore in your mouth, let our experts at Kirkland Dental Excellence check it for you. Schedule your screening with us to stay on top of your oral health!

The Bottom Line

The difference between mouth ulcers and cancer lies in their behavior. Ulcers heal quickly, while oral cancer sores linger and may grow. If you have a sore that won’t go away, don’t take chances, see a dentist or doctor as soon as possible.

FAQs