Dhaka: Many people consider long-lasting wounds inside the mouth, caused by broken or sharp teeth, as a minor problem and ignore them. But over time, constant scraping or irritation on the tongue or cheek from such sharp edges can silently turn into deadly cancer.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, addiction to tobacco and alcohol, and not consulting a doctor at the right time, are causing both the risk and mortality rate of oral cancer to rise alarmingly in the country. Dr. Shakhawat Hossain Sayantha, Dean of Faculty of Dentistry and Associate Professor of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at Bangladesh Medical University (BMU), highlighted these issues in an interview with BSS.
When asked about the causes and prevention of mouth sores and oral cancer, Dr. Sayantha explained that people can get mouth ulcers for various reasons, with the most common being 'aphthous ulcer.' Although extremely painful, it is not dangerous and usually occurs due to mental stress, anxiety, insufficient sleep, or hormonal changes. He noted that these ulcers typically heal on their own within 5 to 7 days without medication. However, not all wounds are simple.
Dr. Sayantha stated that some ulcers appear as symptoms of underlying diseases, such as tuberculosis, syphilis, and herpes simplex virus, which can cause fever blisters or sores inside the mouth. Beyond these, some ulcers are known as 'premalignant lesions,' which are the precancerous stage. Without timely treatment and lifestyle changes, these can turn into cancer. Notable among these are leukoplakia, erythroplakia, lichen planus (LP), and oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF).
Regarding OSMF, Dr. Sayantha pointed out that the main cause is betel nut (supari). Many people in Bangladesh chew betel leaf with tobacco and supari, or chew supari alone. Those who keep supari in their mouth for long periods gradually develop fibrosis, which reduces mouth opening over time and significantly increases the risk of cancer.
On the causes of oral cancer, Dr. Sayantha explained that the prime cause is smokeless tobacco, including gul, jorda, sada pata, and khaini. Smoking and alcohol consumption add even greater risk. He also noted that poor dental care can trigger cancer, as broken or sharp teeth can cause repeated injuries that may turn cancerous due to chronic irritation.
When asked how to differentiate between normal and cancerous mouth sores, Dr. Sayantha advised that if any ulcer lasts more than 10 days and does not improve with general treatment, it must be taken seriously. Immediate consultation with a registered dental surgeon, oral and maxillofacial surgeon, or an ENT head-neck surgeon is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Dr. Sayantha highlighted the dangers of late treatment, noting that early detection allows for minor surgery to cure the patient. However, delayed cases require more intensive treatments and can lead to severe complications or even death.
He also addressed gaps in Bangladesh's healthcare system, emphasizing the importance of a proper referral system and the risks of seeking treatment from unqualified practitioners. Dr. Sayantha urged the public to ensure that dental treatment is provided by a qualified BDS degree holder to avoid severe consequences.
Finally, Dr. Sayantha encouraged public awareness about accessible dental care options, including low-cost or free services at BMU's Dentistry Faculty and government hospitals, to prevent people from resorting to unqualified practitioners for cheaper treatment.