Hello and welcome to the Dr. Anand Subash Podcast.
Today, we’ll clear up an important misconception — Are mouth infections and mouth cancer the same?
The short answer is no. Most mouth infections, like canker sores, viral or bacterial infections, are temporary and heal on their own or with treatment. They usually cause pain, swelling, or discomfort, but resolve within a few days to weeks.
Mouth cancer, on the other hand, involves abnormal growth of cells in the mouth that do not heal. It may start silently without pain, but over time, it can form persistent ulcers, red or white patches, or lumps that continue to grow. Unlike infections, these changes do not go away without medical intervention.
It’s important not to ignore persistent changes in your mouth. If a sore or patch lasts more than two weeks, it should be evaluated by a dental or medical professional to rule out cancer. Early detection can dramatically improve outcomes.
So, while infections and cancer may sometimes appear similar, the key difference is healing — infections heal, cancer does not. Awareness and timely action are essential.
Thank you for listening to the Dr. Anand Subash Podcast — stay alert, check regularly, and protect your oral health.