A cancer expert says a common mouth complaint that lasts more than three weeks should be checked by a doctor. Most ulcers on the inside of the mouth are harmless and will go away on their own in a couple of weeks. But any lasting more than three weeks should be investigated as they could be a sign of mouth cancer, according to radiation oncologist Dr Jiri Kubes.

He said: “Mouth ulcers are really common and rarely a sign of anything serious, but persistent sores that have not cleared up within three weeks should be checked. A doctor or dentist can do this.”

Other symptoms of mouth cancer include unusual persistent lumps and bumps in the mouth and neck that won’t go away, unexplained pain and difficulty swallowing. Unexplained weight loss, a hoarse voice and red or white patches in the mouth can also be a sign.

Dr Kubes, who specialises in proton beam therapy at the Proton Therapy Center in Prague, Czech Republic, said: “Ideally you want the inside of your mouth to look pink and healthy. It’s a good idea to get into the habit of taking a look inside your mouth regularly. Pay attention to any unusual changes, especially if you smoke as this can put you at a higher risk.

“Look all around your tongue for any changes and look for any lumps or discolouration on the inside of both your top and bottom lip. These symptoms are common and can be caused by other conditions, but it is always best to check.”

Last year 10,825 people in the UK were diagnosed with mouth cancer with 3,637 dying as a result of the disease. However according to the Mouth Cancer Foundation just one in five adults are aware of the major signs and symptoms.

Treatment for mouth cancer can include surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Proton therapy is a type of radiotherapy that uses proton beams to target cancerous cells with pencil-point precision.

Dr Kubes continued: “Proton beam therapy has the potential to offer fewer side effects because it uses a highly-charged proton beam to target cancer cells with pencil-point precision. This can ensure the dose is targeted and surrounding tissues are better protected, which is important in the very delicate head and neck area.”

For more information visit ukprotontherapy.co.uk