Mouth ulcers, also called sores, are round yellowish-white lesions that can appear anywhere on the oral mucosa (cheeks, gums, palate, tongue, lips).
They are common and usually harmless, though they can cause discomfort. For most people, these ulcers heal on their own, but some cases can be painful, recurrent, and require treatment.
Below, we’ll discuss the different types of mouth ulcers, their causes, how to treat them, and prevention tips.
Types of Mouth Ulcers
There are 3 types of mouth ulcers:
- Aphthae (Canker Sores)
Aphthae are small, round sores that commonly appear on the soft tissues inside the mouth. They are usually quite painful but are not contagious.
They heal on their own within 10 days. Although the exact cause remains unclear, aphthae are linked to factors like a weakened immune system, stress, and nutritional deficiencies.
- Herpes Labialis (Cold Sores)
Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) and are highly contagious. They usually appear on the lips and around the mouth, and unlike aphthae, herpes lesions do not develop inside the mouth.
These sores can reoccur throughout a person’s life, especially when triggered by stress, sun exposure, or illness.
- Oral Ulcers Due to Trauma
Trauma-induced ulcers can result from physical injuries like accidental bites, poorly fitting dentures, or irritation from braces. Chemical burns from harsh oral care products or hot foods and drinks can also cause ulcers.
Causes of Mouth Ulcers
The appearance of mouth ulcers is generally multifactorial, meaning there are various reasons for their occurrence, such as:
- Immunological factors: Weakened immune systems due to colds, lupus, or medications like immunosuppressants.
- Nutritional deficiencies: Lack of essential vitamins and minerals, especially B vitamins, iron, and zinc.
- Hormonal changes: Hormonal fluctuations during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause can trigger ulcers.
- Stress: Psychological stress is a well-known factor in the development of mouth sores.
- Trauma: Physical trauma from dental appliances, accidental bites, or burns from hot foods.
- Systemic diseases: Conditions like HIV/AIDS, Crohn’s disease, or COVID-19 can be linked to recurring ulcers.
Treatment for Mouth Ulcers
Most ulcers heal on their own within 10 to 14 days. However, if an ulcer is large, persistent, or particularly painful, you may want to seek treatment.
- Medicated Mouthwashes: These often contain analgesic agents like lidocaine or anti-inflammatory ingredients such as dexamethasone to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Topical Gels or Sprays: Over-the-counter gels or sprays like benzocaine help numb the area, providing relief while the ulcer heals.
- Chemical Cauterization: For aphthous ulcers, chemical agents like silver nitrate may be used to cauterize the sore, reducing both pain and healing time.
- Antibiotics: Reserved for severe ulcers, such as recurrent aphthous stomatitis, antibiotics like tetracycline may be used in medicated mouthwashes.
- Hyaluronic Acid: This substance, known for its healing properties, can help speed up the recovery of ulcers by promoting tissue regeneration.
Home Remedies for Mouth Ulcers
If you prefer natural remedies, simple solutions like saltwater rinses, baking soda, or honey can help soothe ulcers and speed up healing. Coconut oil can also be applied due to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
Prevention of Mouth Ulcers
Preventing mouth ulcers isn’t always possible, but there are some steps you can take to reduce their frequency:
- Avoid overly spicy, acidic, or hot foods.
- Practice good oral hygiene with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Consider switching to an SLS-free toothpaste to avoid irritation.
- Stay hydrated and eat a diet rich in B vitamins, iron, and zinc.
- Manage stress through relaxation techniques or regular exercise.
- Quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption.
Mouth Ulcers During Pregnancy
Hormonal changes during pregnancy can lead to mouth ulcers, as well as other oral issues like gingivitis and bleeding gums. Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial during this time, and visiting a dentist for routine checkups is advised.
Mouth Ulcers in Children
Children under 5 years of age frequently develop mouth ulcers, often due to viral infections like the herpes simplex virus or minor injuries like biting their cheeks or gums.
While these ulcers usually resolve within 10 days, a visit to a pediatric dentist may help alleviate discomfort.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are mouth ulcers contagious?
Most mouth ulcers, such as aphthae, are not contagious. However, ulcers caused by herpes simplex virus (cold sores) are contagious and can spread through direct contact, such as kissing or sharing utensils.
What vitamins help with mouth ulcers?
A deficiency in B vitamins, iron, and zinc can contribute to mouth ulcers. Increasing intake of these nutrients through diet or supplements may help prevent recurrent sores.
Can toothpaste cause mouth ulcers?
Yes, some people are sensitive to sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), a common ingredient in toothpaste. Using an SLS-free toothpaste may help reduce irritation and prevent the formation of ulcers.
Why do I get mouth ulcers when stressed?
Stress weakens the immune system, making the body more susceptible to ulcers. Incorporating stress-relief techniques, such as meditation or exercise, can help minimize stress-induced ulcers.
How can I prevent mouth ulcers?
To prevent mouth ulcers:
- Avoid spicy or acidic foods.
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins.
- Practice stress management techniques.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and SLS-free toothpaste.
- Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
Can mouth ulcers be a sign of something serious?
While most ulcers are benign, persistent ulcers that last over two weeks can sometimes indicate a more serious issue, such as oral cancer. If ulcers are large, painless, and don’t heal, it’s important to seek medical attention.
What foods should I avoid when I have a mouth ulcer?
Avoid spicy, salty, or acidic foods, as they can irritate the ulcer. Opt for bland, soft foods like yogurt, smoothies, and cool soups to minimize discomfort.
Can smoking cause mouth ulcers?
Yes, smoking can irritate the mouth and lead to ulcers. Quitting smoking is highly recommended to prevent ulcers and improve oral health.
Conclusion
Mouth ulcers are generally a minor issue, but they can be painful and bothersome. Understanding their causes and knowing how to treat and prevent them can significantly improve your oral health.
If you have ulcers that persist beyond two weeks or are extremely painful, consult a healthcare professional to rule out any serious conditions.