Mouth sores lasting more than three weeks could be a sign of cancer — DOH
STA. BARBARA, Pangasinan (PIA) – The Department of Health (DOH) Ilocos Center for Health Development has warned the public that mouth sores, or aphthous ulcers – commonly known as singaw lasting for more than three weeks – could be a symptom of oral cancer, and should be checked by a medical professional.
According to the DOH, singaw is a small, painful sore inside the mouth that usually heals within a week.
Dr. Mark Mina, a dentist at the DOH Ilocos Center for Health Development, said that a singaw that keeps recurring requires immediate medical evaluation.
“It is best to consult a healthcare provider for a biopsy [a procedure that removes tissue or cell samples for laboratory testing],” Mina advised during the Kapihan sa Ilocos forum organized by the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Region 1 on Feb.21.
Oral hygiene
Mina also highlighted the importance of using toothpaste with the right amount of fluoride to maintain good oral health and avoid complications.
“The recommended fluoride content in toothpaste is between 1,000 and 1,500 parts per million (PPM),” he advised.
He also warned against mouthwash with high alcohol content, as it can irritate the inner lining of the mouth, cause sores, and delay the healing process due to cell breakdown.
The ideal alcohol content in mouthwash ranges from 14 percent to 27 percent ethanol.
To prevent singaw, Mina stressed the importance of proper oral hygiene, including regular brushing to remove food debris and bacteria that can lead to infections.
For Laurice Soriano, a student from Sta. Barbara, keeping her teeth and gums healthy is a top priority.
“I practice proper oral hygiene, like brushing my teeth regularly, to help them [singaw] heal faster. Even when I don’t have any, I still visit my dentist for check-ups to keep my teeth and gums healthy,” Soriano said.
Experts also noted that singaw can be caused not only by poor oral hygiene but also by accidental bites, dehydration, and vitamin deficiencies, making proper hydration, good nutrition, and consistent oral care essential.
As the celebration of Oral Health Month comes to an end, this serves as a reminder that taking care of your oral health is a lifelong commitment — not just a one-month effort. (CCMT/JCDR, PIA Pangasinan)
