Mouth ulcers, also known as canker sores, are painful sores that develop on the soft tissues inside the mouth. They can be uncomfortable, making eating, drinking, and speaking difficult. While most ulcers heal on their own, understanding their causes, treatments, and prevention can help manage them effectively.
What Are Mouth Ulcers?
Mouth ulcers are small, round, or oval sores that appear inside the mouth, including on the lips, cheeks, tongue, and gums. They often have a white, yellow, or gray center with a red border. Unlike cold sores, mouth ulcers are not contagious and are usually caused by various internal or external factors.
Common Causes of Mouth Ulcers
1. Minor Trauma
- Biting the cheek, tongue, or lips
- Injury from braces, dentures, or rough toothbrushes
- Burns from hot foods or beverages
2. Nutritional Deficiencies
- Lack of vitamin B12, iron, and folic acid can trigger ulcers.
3. Stress and Hormonal Changes
- Emotional stress or hormonal fluctuations (e.g., during menstruation) can increase the likelihood of ulcers.
4. Food Sensitivities
- Spicy, acidic, or salty foods may irritate the mouth lining.
- Certain food allergies can contribute to ulcer formation.
5. Medical Conditions
- Gastrointestinal diseases: Ulcers are linked to conditions like Crohn’s disease and celiac disease.
- Autoimmune disorders: Conditions such as lupus can cause recurrent ulcers.
- Viral infections: Some ulcers result from infections, including herpes simplex.
6. Medication Side Effects
- Some medications, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and beta-blockers, can trigger mouth ulcers.
Types of Mouth Ulcers
| Type | Description | Healing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Minor Ulcers | Small, round, and shallow sores | 1-2 weeks |
| Major Ulcers | Larger, deeper, and more painful | Several weeks (may scar) |
| Herpetiform Ulcers | Clusters of small ulcers | 1-2 weeks |
How to Treat Mouth Ulcers
1. Home Remedies
- Saltwater Rinse: Mix 1 teaspoon of salt in warm water and rinse to reduce inflammation.
- Baking Soda Paste: Apply a paste of baking soda and water to neutralize acidity.
- Honey: Has natural antibacterial properties that aid healing.
- Aloe Vera Gel: Soothes the affected area and promotes recovery.
2. Over-the-Counter Treatments
- Antiseptic Mouthwashes (e.g., chlorhexidine) help prevent infection.
- Pain Relievers like benzocaine gels (e.g., Orajel) numb the sore.
- Corticosteroid Ointments reduce inflammation and speed healing.
3. Medical Treatments
- Prescribed Mouth Rinses: Used for severe or persistent ulcers.
- Oral Medications: In rare cases, doctors prescribe immunosuppressants.
How to Prevent Mouth Ulcers
- Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush and floss daily.
- Avoid Irritating Foods: Limit spicy, acidic, and rough foods.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to prevent dry mouth.
- Manage Stress: Practice relaxation techniques like meditation and deep breathing.
- Boost Immunity: Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals.
When to See a Doctor
See a dentist or doctor if:
- Ulcers last longer than three weeks.
- You have frequent, recurrent ulcers.
- The ulcer is extremely painful or spreading.
- There are other symptoms like fever or swollen lymph nodes.
FAQs About Mouth Ulcers
1. Are mouth ulcers contagious?
No, canker sores are not contagious, unlike cold sores caused by herpes simplex.
2. How long do mouth ulcers take to heal?
Minor ulcers heal in 7-14 days, while major ulcers may take several weeks.
3. What foods should I avoid with mouth ulcers?
Avoid spicy, acidic, and crunchy foods that may irritate the sores.
4. Can stress cause mouth ulcers?
Yes, stress is a common trigger for mouth ulcers.
5. Can I get rid of a mouth ulcer overnight?
There is no instant cure, but remedies like honey and baking soda can speed healing.
Final Thoughts
Mouth ulcers are common but manageable with proper care. Identifying the cause and following preventive measures can reduce their frequency and severity. If your ulcers persist or worsen, consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.