Question:
I have what appears to be two small cold sores (white and circular)
on the left side of my upper gum (between upper lip and upper gum). I
have had them for at least 2 months now. I cannot recall exactly when
the onset was and I cannot recall having any intense pain. However, I
do recall feeling discomfort around the affected area the first time I
noticed it but no pain. I continue to feel some slight discomfort.
The sores do not appear to be getting larger but it is bothersome in
that they are there and that they cause some discomfort.
I am 32 year old male non smoker (quit in 1995) but I 'dip' snuff
tobacco on and off for the last 4-5 years but otherwise healthy. In
the last year, I have probably dipped on average 1 can a day which is
an increase over the earlier years. I'm not sure if the dipping is
connected with these sores as they are located away from the area I
generally keep the tobacco (between lower front lip and gum) but I
thought it might be important.
My concern is that since it hasn't gone away for 2 months perhaps it is
the early stage of a form of cancer. I would appreciate any help or
advise.
Answer:
Anything that doesn't heal in a two month period deserves investigation. Go to
your dentist and ask him/her about it. Maybe a brush biopsy is in order. It's
quick and painless and the results are accurate.
