Mouth sores are something that almost everyone experiences at some point, whether caused by food irritation, an injury, or a common condition like a canker sore. But when that mouth sore just doesn’t seem to go away, it can understandably raise concerns. Is it something serious, or just a stubborn sore that will heal with time?

If you’ve noticed a mouth sore that seems to be lingering longer than two weeks, you may wonder, “Is this something I need to be concerned about?” In most cases, the answer is no. But there are times when persistent mouth sores can signal something more serious, such as a possible oral cancer warning. Let’s dive into what you should know about mouth sores and when it might be time to consider getting an oral biopsy.

What is a Mouth Sore?

A mouth sore, or ulcer, is usually a painful spot in the mouth that can arise on the inside of your lips, cheeks, gums, tongue, or palate. They come in many shapes and sizes, ranging from small, round ulcers to large, irregular ones. These sores are most often caused by irritation, stress, hormonal change, or even medical conditions.

Fortunately, while most mouth sores are non-cancerous and resolve on their own, persistent sores can be associated with more serious health conditions. This may be a reason your dentist could refer you for further investigation, such as an oral biopsy.

When Should You Be Concerned?

Not every mouth sore is a cause for alarm, but there are some key signs that indicate it is time to see your dentist. These include:

• A sore that persists for more than two weeks: Most mouth sores will heal within this timeframe, so if it doesn’t go away, it’s worth investigating further.
• Changes in color or texture: If the sore changes from red to white or becomes lumpy, that is not a good sign.
• Painful or swollen lymph nodes: Swollen lymph nodes in your neck or under your jaw, in addition to a persistent mouth sore, may indicate an infection or even oral cancer.
• Difficulty swallowing or speaking: If the sore is substantially painful when trying to eat, drink, or speak, it may be necessary to investigate the issue further.

What is an Oral Biopsy?

An oral biopsy is a surgical procedure that involves taking a small sample of tissue from your mouth. The tissue sample will then be looked at under a microscope to check for the presence of any abnormal cells. An oral biopsy can aid in the identification or exclusion of potentially dangerous diseases, such as oral cancer, which is more treatable when it is detected early.

Types of Mouth Sores That May Require a Biopsy

Most mouth sores are harmless, but some sores do require more attention. These include:

• Larger-than-usual sores: A sore larger than usual may indicate a deeper underlying problem.
• Sores with irregular borders: Sores that are irregularly shaped or have raised, hardened edges may require biopsy.
• White patches or red areas: These are usually signs of precancerous conditions, such as leukoplakia or erythroplakia.

Keep in mind that just because a sore looks different doesn’t mean it’s cancerous. An oral biopsy will provide the clarity needed to make an accurate diagnosis.

What Happens During an Oral Biopsy?

If your dentist considers that you might need an oral biopsy, the procedure will be relatively quick and simple. Here’s how it generally goes:

• Local anesthesia: The area around the sore will be numbed to ensure your comfort.
• Tissue sample collection: Your dentist will remove a small sample of tissue from the affected area. This may feel like a pinch or pressure, but it should not be painful.
• Lab analysis: After collection, the tissue sample is sent to the lab for analysis, where it is examined for any abnormal or cancerous cells.

The results generally take about a week to return, at which time your dentist will follow up with you to discuss the next steps.

How to Take Care of a Mouth Sore

While you are waiting for your biopsy results, it is vital to take care of the sore to avoid infection and further irritation. Here are some tips for managing mouth sores:

• Saltwater rinse: This can reduce the inflammation and help in the healing process.
• Avoid certain foods: Refrain from consuming spicy, acidic, or hard-to-chew foods that may further irritate the sore.
• Over-the-counter treatments may be used that contain gels and ointments that offer a numbing effect to reduce pain.

Is It Time for a Biopsy? 

Most mouth sores are not severe and will heal on their own. However, a sore that is not healing after two weeks should be taken seriously. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is advisable to consult with our dental office to determine whether an oral biopsy in Lakeway may be necessary.

FAQs

1. What are the most common causes of mouth sores?
Stress, injury, food sensitivities, infections, or underlying medical conditions can cause mouth sores.

2. How long should a mouth sore last before seeing a dentist?
If a mouth sore lasts more than two weeks, it’s a good idea to consult with a dentist.

3. Can mouth sores be a sign of oral cancer?
Yes, while most mouth sores are not cancerous, persistent sores that don’t heal may be a sign of oral cancer and should be evaluated by a dentist.

4. Are oral biopsies painful?
Oral biopsies are generally not painful, as the area is numbed with local anesthesia during the procedure.

5. How long does it take to recover from an oral biopsy?
Recovery is usually quick, with most people experiencing minimal discomfort for a few days.