Understanding Mouth Ulcers: Symptoms & Treatment

Mouth ulcers, also known as canker sores or oral sores, are painful lesions that can develop on the mucous membranes inside the mouth.

These ulcers can be small or large, single or multiple, and can appear on the tongue, gums, inner cheeks, or the roof of the mouth.

They are usually round or oval with a white or yellow center and a red border. Mouth ulcers can make eating, drinking, and even speaking uncomfortable due to the pain they cause.

The exact cause of mouth ulcers is still not fully understood, but they are believed to be triggered by a combination of factors, including stress, vitamin deficiencies, and oral hygiene issues.

While most mouth ulcers heal on their own within a week or two, recurrent or unusually large ulcers may require medical attention.

What are the Forms of Mouth Ulcers?

There are three main forms of mouth ulcers: minor, major, and herpetiform ulcers.

• Minor ulcers are the most common type and are small, round or oval ulcers that typically heal within one to two weeks without scarring.
• Major ulcers are larger and deeper than minor ulcers, can be very painful, and may take several weeks to heal. These ulcers can leave scars once they heal.
• Herpetiform ulcers are small ulcers that occur in clusters of 10 to 100 lesions. Despite their name, they are not caused by the herpes virus.

The symptoms of mouth ulcers may vary depending on the form, but common symptoms include pain or discomfort, difficulty eating or drinking, and sensitivity to spicy or acidic foods.

What are the Causes of Mouth Ulcers?

Mouth ulcers can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Stress: Stress is a common trigger for mouth ulcers. High levels of stress can weaken the immune system, making the body more susceptible to developing ulcers.
• Vitamin deficiencies: Deficiencies in essential vitamins such as vitamin B12, iron, and folic acid can lead to the development of mouth ulcers.
• Canker sores vs ulcers: Canker sores are a type of mouth ulcer that is not contagious and is not caused by a viral infection. They are often triggered by stress, hormonal changes, or certain foods.
• Oral hygiene: Poor oral hygiene, including inadequate brushing and flossing, can lead to the accumulation of bacteria in the mouth, increasing the risk of developing ulcers.

What is the Diagnostic Method for Mouth Ulcers?

Diagnosing mouth ulcers typically involves a physical examination of the mouth by a healthcare provider. In some cases, a biopsy may be performed to rule out other possible causes of the ulcers.

If the ulcers are recurrent or unusually large, further tests such as blood tests or allergy tests may be conducted to determine the underlying cause.

Advanced diagnostic techniques such as endoscopy or imaging studies may be recommended if the ulcers are persistent or if there are other concerning symptoms present.

What is the Treatment for Mouth Ulcers?

Treatment for mouth ulcers aims to relieve pain, promote healing, and prevent infection.

• Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen to reduce pain and inflammation.
• Topical treatments such as mouth rinses, gels, or creams containing ingredients like benzocaine or corticosteroids to numb the pain and promote healing.
• Prescription medications such as corticosteroids or antibiotics may be prescribed for severe or recurrent ulcers.
• Lifestyle changes such as improving oral hygiene, managing stress, and maintaining a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals.

When to Visit a Doctor?

While most mouth ulcers heal on their own within one to two weeks, it is important to seek medical attention if:

• The ulcers are unusually large or persistent.
• The ulcers are accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, fatigue, or swollen lymph nodes.
• You have a history of recurrent ulcers or a family history of oral cancer.
• The ulcers are causing severe pain or difficulty eating, drinking, or speaking.

Early diagnosis and treatment of underlying conditions that may be causing the ulcers can help prevent complications and promote healing.

Home Remedies for Mouth Ulcers

In addition to medical treatments, there are several home remedies that can help relieve the pain and promote healing of mouth ulcers.

• Rinsing the mouth with salt water or baking soda solution to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
• Applying honey or coconut oil directly to the ulcers to soothe pain and protect the affected area.
• Avoiding spicy, acidic, or rough foods that can irritate the ulcers and slow down the healing process.
• Maintaining good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly to prevent infection and promote healing.

It is important to note that while home remedies can help alleviate symptoms, they are not a substitute for medical treatment.

If your ulcers do not improve or if you experience severe pain or other concerning symptoms, consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation and treatment.