Mouth ulcers, also known as canker sores, are small, painful lesions that develop inside the mouth or at the base of the gums. They can make eating, drinking, and speaking uncomfortable. These ulcers are not contagious and usually heal within one to two weeks. However, medical attention may be necessary if a sore is enormous, extremely painful, or does not heal over time.
Common Causes of Mouth Ulcers
Mouth ulcers can occur for various reasons, many of which are not linked to underlying health conditions. Some common causes include:
- Injury or irritation – Biting the inside of the cheek, burns from hot food or drinks, poorly fitting dentures, braces, or sharp teeth.
- Dietary factors – Eating acidic or spicy foods like citrus fruits or sour candies.
- Stress and hormonal changes – Emotional stress or hormonal fluctuations can contribute to ulcer formation, particularly in women.
- Certain medications – Some drugs, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and beta-blockers, can trigger ulcers.
- Underlying health conditions – Skin disorders, viral, bacterial, fungal infections, and autoimmune diseases may increase the likelihood of developing mouth ulcers.
Treatment and Prevention
Most mouth ulcers heal on their own, but the following measures can help speed up recovery and reduce discomfort:
- Avoid irritants – Steer clear of spicy, acidic, or rough-textured foods that can worsen the sore.
- Maintain oral hygiene – Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and alcohol-free mouthwash to prevent infection.
- Pain relief – Over-the-counter gels, antiseptic mouthwashes, and pain relievers can help alleviate discomfort.
- Home remedies – Rinsing with salt water or applying honey may promote healing.
- Address underlying causes – If ulcers are frequent or severe, a healthcare provider may need to investigate potential medical conditions.
Individuals with recurrent mouth ulcers, teenagers, and women may be more prone to developing them. Although mouth ulcers can be bothersome, simple preventive measures and proper care can help minimize their occurrence and discomfort.
Aphthous Ulcers: Causes, Symptoms, and Management
What Are Aphthous Ulcers?
Aphthous ulcers, commonly known as canker sores, are recurrent mouth ulcers affecting approximately 20% of the population. Most cases have no clear cause. However, a small number may connect to low levels of vitamin B, folate, or iron.
Symptoms of Mouth Ulcers
- Mouth ulcers can cause:
- Painful sores on the inner lining of the mouth.
- Swelling around the affected area.
- Difficulty chewing or discomfort while eating.
- Increased irritation from salty, spicy, or acidic foods.
Types of Mouth Ulcers
Three main types of aphthous ulcers exist:
1. Minor Aphthous Ulcers
- The most common type occurs in about 80% of cases.
- Small (less than 10 mm), round, or oval in shape.
- Appear pale yellow with a red, swollen border.
- Up to five ulcers may develop at a time.
- Typically, it can heal within 7–10 days without scarring.
- Usually mild and not excessively painful.
2. Major Aphthous Ulcers
- Occurs in about 10% of cases.
- It is more significant than 10 mm and more profound than minor ulcers.
- Usually, they appear one or two at a time.
- It can take two weeks to several months to heal, often leaving a scar.
- It is more painful, making eating and drinking difficult.
3. Herpetiform Ulcers
- Account for around 10% of cases.
- Minuscule (1–2 mm) but appear in clusters.
- Multiple ulcers may merge, forming irregular shapes.
- Last from one week to two months.
- Despite the name, they are unrelated to herpes or the herpes virus.
General Management and Prevention
Although mouth ulcers heal on their own, the following steps may help manage discomfort and prevent further irritation:
- Dietary Adjustments: Avoid spicy foods, acidic drinks, and salty snacks that can worsen pain.
- Use of Straws: When drinking liquids, use a straw to prevent contact with ulcers at the front of the mouth. (However, avoid using straws for hot beverages to prevent burns.)
- Gentle Oral Care: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and see a dentist if dentures or braces are irritating.
- Medication Review: If a specific medication may trigger ulcers, consult a doctor for alternatives. For instance, individuals using nicotine gum or lozenges may consider switching to patches or nasal sprays.
- Saltwater Rinses: Dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in warm water and rinse the mouth before spitting it out. You can use this for relief as needed, but do not swallow it.
Managing Mouth Ulcers: Prevention, Causes, and When to Seek Help
How to Support Healing and Reduce Discomfort
Avoiding irritants can help:
- Speed up the healing process.
- Reduce pain and discomfort.
- Lower the chances of recurrence.
- Vitamin Deficiency and Mouth Ulcers
A deficiency in vitamin B12 can produce abnormally large red blood cells that do not function properly. Doctors often link this condition to anaemia and it may contribute to the development of mouth ulcers.
When to See a Dentist
While most mouth ulcers heal on their own, you should consult a dentist if:
- The ulcer lasts longer than three weeks.
- It frequently recurs.
- It grows more significant than usual or develops near the back of the throat.
- It starts bleeding, becoming increasingly painful, or appearing inflamed, which could indicate an infection.
Although most mouth ulcers are harmless, a persistent or unusual ulcer could indicate oral cancer. Early evaluation by a dental professional is essential for prompt diagnosis and treatment.
Comprehensive Dental Care at Aram Dental Clinic
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