Mouth ulcers and persistent mouth changes

Overview

Mouth ulcers are common and often settle, but a persistent or unusual sore needs checking. Local irritation from a sharp tooth, dentures or an accidental bite can be relevant. Recurrent ulcers can also warrant a wider review, especially when there are symptoms elsewhere.

An ulcer that is different from your usual pattern, a red or white patch, a lump or ongoing swallowing difficulty should not simply be labelled as another routine ulcer. These changes have several possible causes. An examination helps decide what further assessment is necessary.

By telephone

A telephone conversation can establish how long the problem has been present, whether it has healed and returned, and how it affects eating or drinking. Explain whether the ulcer is in a new location, bleeds or is associated with other mouth or neck changes.

For recurrent episodes, mention dental appliances, medicines and symptoms affecting other body areas, such as joint problems or ulcers elsewhere. Have details of any previous dental or medical assessment available. The discussion can help identify whether dental examination or a broader medical review is appropriate.

What cannot be done remotely

A phone call cannot inspect the whole mouth, feel a lump or check whether a tooth or denture is causing injury. A dentist or doctor may need to examine the mouth and neck. A persistent lesion may require specialist assessment rather than repeated advice about comfort measures.

Avoid assuming that lack of pain makes a change unimportant. Equally, being referred for further tests does not establish a cancer diagnosis. The purpose is to clarify the finding. Keep a planned examination even if symptoms fluctuate before the appointment.

What to prepare

• Note how long the ulcer or mouth change has remained.
• Describe its location and whether it differs from previous episodes.
• Mention dentures, sharp teeth, medicines and other symptoms.
• Have previous dental findings and your main questions ready.

Sources

• NHS: mouth ulcers
• NHS: mouth cancer symptoms
• NHS: dysphagia (swallowing problems)