Everyone has experienced mouth ulcers at some point in their lives. These tiny sores can turn everyday activities like eating, speaking, and even smiling into painful endeavours.
Whether you have encountered a mouth ulcer recently or are seeking knowledge about prevention and treatment, this guide will provide you with comprehensive insights into everything you need to know about these pesky oral irritations.
From understanding the causes and types of mouth ulcers to exploring effective home remedies and professional treatments, we will dive into the world of mouth ulcers to help you find relief and regain control over your oral health.
As we provide insights into mouth ulcers, get ready to learn practical tips, and expert advice to tackle mouth ulcers head-on.
What Are Mouth Ulcers?
Mouth ulcers are often called canker sores. They are painful sores that occur in the tongue, gums, lips, or inside the cheeks. These shallow, round or oval-shaped ulcers often have a white or yellowish center surrounded by a red border. While they are non-contagious, they can cause discomfort and interfere with a person’s daily activities.
Symptoms
Symptoms of mouth ulcers can range from:
- Pain or discomfort in the mouth
- Sore
- Difficulty eating
- Irritation
- Swelling or inflammation
Causes of Mouth Ulcers
Mouth ulcers can be caused by various factors, ranging from physical irritation to underlying health conditions. While the exact cause may vary from person to person, here are some common causes of mouth ulcers:
- Trauma: Accidental biting, toothbrush abrasion, or injuries to the mouth can trigger the formation of ulcers.
- Hormonal changes: Some individuals may experience mouth ulcers during hormonal shifts, such as menstruation or pregnancy.
- Nutritional deficiencies: Lack of essential vitamins, iron, vitamin B12, or folate, can increase the chances of mouth ulcers.
- Certain foods and drinks: Spicy or acidic foods, citrus fruits, chocolate, coffee, and nuts are known to trigger mouth ulcers in some people.
- Stress and immune system factors: Emotional stress, weakened immune system, or underlying health conditions can contribute to recurring mouth ulcers.
- Genetics: There may be a genetic predisposition to mouth ulcers, as they can run in families.
Types of Mouth Ulcers
Below we have provided a list of mouth ulcers and their underlying causes.
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- Minor ulcers: These are the most common type and appear as small, round sores that heal within one to two weeks without scarring.
- Major ulcers: Larger and deeper than minor ulcers, major ulcers can take several weeks to heal and may leave behind scars.
- Herpetiform ulcers: Despite the name, they are not related to herpes. Herpetiform ulcers are small, multiple ulcers that can be quite painful and may take a few weeks to heal.
- Traumatic Ulcers: Traumatic ulcers are caused by physical trauma or injury to the mouth. Common causes include accidentally biting the inside of the cheek or lip, sharp edges of braces or ill-fitting dentures rubbing against the oral tissues, or dental procedures that irritate the mouth.
- Drug-Induced Ulcers: Certain painkiller medications such as aspirin or ibuprofen can cause ulcers as a side effect.
How to Alleviate Pain from Mouth Ulcers at Home
While it is important to consult a dentist for mouth sores treatment, you can try some home remedies. They can help alleviate the discomfort.
- Saltwater Rinse: Mix a teaspoon of salt in warm water. Rinse with saltwater solution a few times every day. Saltwater can help reduce inflammation while ensuring faster healing.
- Baking Soda Paste: Apply baking soda paste directly onto the ulcer and leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing your mouth. it can help soothe the sore and neutralize acidity.
- Honey: Apply a few drops of honey directly onto the ulcer. Honey has natural antimicrobial and soothing properties that can aid in the healing process.
- Coconut Oil: Gently swish a tablespoon of coconut oil in your mouth for a few minutes, then spit it out. It is also known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that helps to reduce mouth ulcer-like disease.
- Aloe Vera Gel: Extract aloe vera gel from an aloe vera plant and directly apply it to the ulcer. Aloe vera has soothing properties that offer some relief.
Treatment
The mouth ulcer treatment options are as follows:
Topical medications containing ingredients like benzocaine or hydrogen peroxide can provide temporary pain relief by numbing the area or promoting healing. Anti-microbial mouthwashes also help to reduce the risk of infection.
In severe cases or for recurrent ulcers, a healthcare professional may prescribe corticosteroid ointments, cold sore on lip treatment, and mouth rinses to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
For particularly stubborn or larger ulcers, a healthcare professional may perform cauterization or laser therapy. These procedures help to seal the ulcer and promote faster healing.
If your dentist identifies it’s contributing factor, they may suggest some supplements to address deficiencies in vitamins or minerals.
Since stress can contribute to the development of mouth ulcers, finding stress management techniques may be beneficial.
At Thousand Smiles, we are passionate about making patients’ lives easier and trouble-free. This is why we create the best mouth ulcer treatment plan to help alleviate your pain. Give us a call or visit our clinic if you are dealing with a mouth ulcer emergency treatment. We will be always available to provide you with the best dental care treatment.
