Mouth ulcers, also known as canker sores or aphthous ulcers, are small, painful lesions that appear on the soft tissues inside your mouth, such as on your gums, inner cheeks, or tongue.
While harmless, they can be incredibly bothersome and interfere with eating, speaking, and oral hygiene.
Here’s what you need to know about them:
What Causes Them?
The exact cause of mouth ulcers isn’t fully understood, but a combination of factors is believed to contribute to their appearance. Some of the most common causes and triggers include:
- Minor trauma: Accidental biting of your cheek or lip, aggressive tooth brushing, or irritation from dental appliances can trigger ulcers.
- Nutritional deficiencies: A lack of essential vitamins and minerals, such as iron, zinc, folic acid, or vitamin B12, can contribute to ulcer formation.
- Stress: Periods of physical or emotional stress can weaken the immune system, making your body more susceptible to ulcers.
- Hormonal changes: Women may notice a link between the appearance of ulcers and their menstrual cycles.
- Weakened immune system: Certain medical conditions that compromise the immune system can increase the risk of ulcers.
- Food sensitivities: Some foods, like chocolate, coffee, strawberries, cheese, or acidic foods, can trigger ulcers in certain individuals.
- Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) in toothpaste: Some researchers suggest that SLS, a common foaming agent in many toothpastes, might irritate the oral lining and contribute to ulcer development.
How to Recognize a Mouth Ulcer: Symptoms
A typical mouth ulcer appears as a round or oval lesion, white or yellowish in color, surrounded by a red, inflamed area. Its size can vary from a few millimeters to over a centimeter. The most prominent symptom is pain, which can be intense, especially when eating or speaking. Sometimes, before the lesion itself appears, you might feel a tingling or burning sensation in the affected area.
Quick Treatment and Useful Tips
Usually, ulcers heal on their own within one to two weeks, without leaving scars. However, there are several measures you can take to reduce discomfort and speed up healing:
- Avoid irritating foods: Spicy, acidic, salty, or hard foods can worsen the pain. Opt for soft and cool foods.
- Rinse your mouth: Rinsing with salt water (one teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water) several times a day can help clean the area and reduce inflammation. Also, rinses with a baking soda solution (one teaspoon in half a glass of water) can soothe the pain.
- Use topical products: Over-the-counter gels, creams, or sprays are available that can provide a protective barrier and reduce pain. Look for products containing benzocaine, fluocinolone acetonide, or protective agents.
- Maintain good oral hygiene: Brush your teeth gently, using a soft-bristled toothbrush, to avoid further irritation.
- Stay hydrated: Make sure you drink enough water to keep your oral mucosa moist.
- Supplements: If you suspect a nutritional deficiency, discuss with your doctor about potential iron, zinc, folic acid, or vitamin B12 supplements.
- Manage stress: Relaxation practices, such as meditation or yoga, can help manage stress and, consequently, reduce the frequency of ulcers.
- Choose the right toothpaste: If you’re prone to ulcers, try a toothpaste without sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS).
When to see a doctor?
While mouth ulcers are typically harmless, you should consult a doctor or dentist if:
- The ulcers are unusually large or painful.
- They appear frequently or persist for more than two weeks.
- You have severe difficulty eating or drinking.
- You have a fever or other systemic symptoms.
In conclusion, mouth ulcers are a common and, most often, temporary problem. By understanding their causes and applying simple home remedies, you can effectively manage discomfort and speed up the healing process.
Have you had experiences with mouth ulcers?
What remedies have helped you?