Mouth ulcers, also known as canker sores or aphthous ulcers, are small, painful sores that develop inside the mouth. They can appear on the inner cheeks, gums, tongue, roof of the mouth, or the floor of the mouth. Although they are usually harmless and heal on their own, mouth ulcers can be uncomfortable and may interfere with eating, speaking, and daily activities.
Causes of Mouth Ulcers
The exact cause of mouth ulcers is not always clear, but several factors are known to contribute to their development.
- Injury or Trauma:Â Biting the inside of the cheek, brushing too hard, or dental work can cause irritation leading to ulcers.
- Stress and Hormonal Changes:Â Emotional stress and hormonal fluctuations, especially in women during menstruation, can trigger ulcers.
- Nutritional Deficiencies:Â Lack of essential nutrients such as iron, vitamin B12, and folic acid can increase the risk.
- Food Sensitivities:Â Certain acidic or spicy foods like citrus fruits, tomatoes, and nuts may provoke ulcers.
- Infections:Â Viral infections such as herpes simplex can cause mouth sores.
- Underlying Medical Conditions: Diseases like celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, and autoimmune disorders may present with recurrent ulcers.
- Medications:Â Some drugs, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and beta-blockers, can cause ulcers as a side effect.
Symptoms of Mouth Ulcers
Mouth ulcers typically start as small, red, inflamed spots that develop into open sores with a white or yellow center surrounded by a red halo. Common symptoms include:
- Pain or burning sensation, especially when eating or drinking hot, spicy, or acidic foods
- Difficulty chewing or speaking
- Swelling and redness around the ulcerated area
- In severe cases, fever and swollen lymph nodes may occur
Types of Mouth Ulcers
There are several types of mouth ulcers, including:
- Minor aphthous ulcers:Â Small, less than 1 cm in diameter, and heal within one to two weeks without scarring.
- Major aphthous ulcers:Â Larger and deeper, can take weeks to heal and may leave scars.
- Herpetiform ulcers:Â Numerous small ulcers that cluster together, resembling herpes lesions, but caused by a different mechanism.
Diagnosis
Most mouth ulcers are diagnosed through clinical examination. However, if ulcers are persistent, recurrent, or associated with other symptoms, further investigations such as blood tests, biopsies, or allergy testing may be needed to rule out underlying conditions.
Treatment and Management
There is no specific cure for mouth ulcers, but various treatments can help alleviate pain, reduce healing time, and prevent infection:
- Topical treatments:Â Over-the-counter gels, creams, or mouthwashes containing antiseptics, corticosteroids, or analgesics.
- Oral hygiene:Â Maintaining good oral hygiene with a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoiding irritating foods.
- Nutritional supplements:Â Taking vitamins and minerals if deficiencies are identified.
- Pain relief:Â Using painkillers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen as needed.
- Avoiding triggers:Â Identifying and avoiding foods or stress factors that cause ulcers.
When to See a Doctor
Seek medical advice:
- Persist for more than two weeks
- Are unusually large or painful
- Recur frequently
- Are accompanied by other symptoms like weight loss, fever, or difficulty swallowing
Prevention Tips
- Maintain good oral hygiene.
- Avoid foods that irritate your mouth.
- Manage stress through relaxation techniques.
- Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals.
- Avoid tobacco and limit alcohol consumption.
Conclusion
Mouth ulcers are a common and often minor health issue that can cause significant discomfort. Understanding their causes, symptoms, and treatment options can help manage the condition effectively. If ulcers are persistent or recurrent, consulting a healthcare professional is important to rule out serious underlying conditions and receive appropriate care
.