Is there a link between gutka use and oral cancer?

Question

Hi doctor,

I have been chewing Gutka for the past ten years. I cannot eat spicy food, and the skin is whitish yellow on both sides of my buccal mucosa. I have taken vitamin B complex capsules, and I use Hexidine mouthwash thrice a week.

In addition, there are recurrent sores in the mouth after eating spicy food. I did not notice much in the past, but now I have started to observe the changes. And also, when I open my mouth wide, it hurts.

Is it a matter of concern, or is it cancer?

Please give your suggestions.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I went through your query and understood your concern.

It does not seem to be cancer but the condition is called oral submucous fibrosis, which can lead to cancer if not taken care of. So, I suggest you to follow the instructions mentioned below,

1. Stop chewing Gutka as soon as possible.

2. Get your teeth cleaned by a dentist every six months for two years and once every year later.

3. Use warm salt water gargle twice daily for a week or two.

4. Take multivitamins like Mactotal (nutritional supplement) once daily for two months. Please consult with your doctor, talk to them and take the medication with their consent.

5. Do mouth exercises like opening and closing to loosen the fibers. You can also use sugar-free chewing gum to help with the exercise.

I hope this has helped you.

Take care.