Your mouth can reveal signs of broader health issues. According to the article, **“changes like lesions, discoloration, or swelling”** on the gums or tongue may indicate anything from minor infections to serious conditions like oral cancer.

White patches might be **leukoplakia**, often caused by smoking or dentures, and while not always harmful, **“it can be a precursor to oral cancer.”** Red patches may signal infection or inflammation and should be checked if they don’t heal. Canker sores, usually caused by **“stress or vitamin deficiencies,”** tend to heal on their own, but persistent ones need attention.

Bleeding gums and bad breath often mean gum disease. Early stages like **gingivitis** can become **periodontitis**, risking tooth loss. A **“swollen or oddly colored tongue”** may point to allergies, digestion issues, or lack of vitamin B12 or iron.

Cold sores, caused by the **herpes simplex virus (HSV-1),** are contagious and pass through stages of **“tingling, blistering, rupturing, and scabbing”** over a week. Triggers include stress, illness, or sun exposure.

There’s no cure for cold sores, but **“antiviral medication, creams, and pain relief”** can help. Avoid spreading them by not sharing items and maintaining good health. See a doctor for frequent or severe outbreaks.