Mouth ulcers can be a painful and uncomfortable experience. These small sores or wounds in the mouth can make eating and speaking difficult, and can cause discomfort or pain. They are a common condition, and most people will experience them at some point in their lives. Understanding what causes mouth ulcers, the symptoms to look out for and how to treat them, can help you manage them effectively.
What are Mouth Ulcers?
Mouth ulcers are small wounds or sores that develop in the mouth. They can appear anywhere in the mouth, including on the lips, gums, tongue, cheek or floor of the mouth. They are usually round or oval-shaped, with a white or yellow center, and a red border. Mouth ulcers can be painful and can last anywhere from a few days to several weeks.
What Causes Mouth Ulcers?
There are several potential causes of mouth ulcers, including:
- Canker sores: The most common type of mouth ulcer, canker sores are small, shallow sores that appear on the inside of the cheeks, lips, tongue or throat.
- Trauma: Biting the cheek or tongue, wearing dentures that don’t fit properly or brushing your teeth too hard can cause mouth ulcers.
- Infections: Cold sores, which are caused by the herpes simplex virus, and thrush, which is a yeast infection, can both cause mouth ulcers.
- Food allergies or sensitivities: Some people may develop mouth ulcers as a result of an allergy or sensitivity to certain foods.
- Hormonal changes: Women may experience mouth ulcers during menstruation or pregnancy due to hormonal changes.
- Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, and Behçet’s syndrome, can also cause mouth ulcers.
Symptoms of Mouth Ulcers
The most common symptom of a mouth ulcer is a painful sore or wound in the mouth. Other symptoms can include:
- Redness and swelling around the sore
- A burning or tingling sensation in the mouth
- Difficulty eating or speaking
Treatment of Mouth Ulcers
The treatment of mouth ulcers depends on the underlying cause. In some cases, home remedies and over-the-counter treatments can help manage symptoms. Some of the most effective home remedies for mouth ulcers include:
- Saltwater rinse: Rinse your mouth with saltwater several times a day to help reduce pain and promote healing.
- Aloe vera: Apply aloe vera gel directly to the sore several times a day to help reduce pain and promote healing.
- Hydrogen peroxide: Rinse your mouth with a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and water to help kill bacteria and promote healing.
If your mouth ulcers are severe or do not respond to home remedies, you may need to see a doctor. Your doctor can diagnose the underlying cause of your mouth ulcers and recommend a specific treatment plan. In some cases, prescription medications may be necessary to manage symptoms and promote healing.
FAQs
Q: How long do mouth ulcers last?
A: Mouth ulcers can last anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on the underlying cause and how effectively they are treated.
Q: Are mouth ulcers contagious?
A: Most types of mouth ulcers are not contagious. However, cold sores, which are caused by the herpes
simplex virus, are contagious and can be spread through close contact with an infected person.
Q: Can stress cause mouth ulcers?
A: Stress is not a direct cause of mouth ulcers, but it can weaken the immune system and make you more susceptible to other conditions that can cause mouth ulcers, such as canker sores and infections.
Q: Are mouth ulcers serious?
A: Most mouth ulcers are not serious and can be treated effectively with home remedies or over-the-counter medications. However, if you have frequent or severe mouth ulcers, or if your mouth ulcers are accompanied by other symptoms such as fever or difficulty swallowing, it is important to see a doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions.
Conclusion: Mouth ulcers are a common condition that can be uncomfortable and painful. Understanding what causes mouth ulcers, the symptoms to look out for, and how to treat them, can help you manage them effectively. If your mouth ulcers are severe or do not respond to home remedies, it is important to see a doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions.
Durga Awasthi 
Sonal Mitra