Mouth ulcers are small sores that develop inside the mouth and are a common cause of pain and discomfort. While most mouth ulcers are harmless and heal on their own within one to two weeks, some may persist or recur frequently, signalling an underlying health condition that requires medical attention.
Dental experts advise that any mouth ulcer lasting longer than two weeks should be examined by a healthcare professional.
What Are Mouth Ulcers?
Mouth ulcers, also known as canker sores or aphthous ulcers, are shallow sores that develop on the soft tissues inside the mouth, including the:
- Inside of the cheeks.
- Lips.
- Tongue.
- Gums.
- Floor of the mouth.
Unlike cold sores, mouth ulcers are not contagious and do not usually occur on the outside of the lips.
What Causes Mouth Ulcers?
The exact cause is not always known, but common triggers include:
- Minor injuries from biting the cheek or brushing too hard.
- Stress and anxiety.
- Hormonal changes.
- Deficiencies in iron, vitamin B12, or folate.
- Certain foods, especially acidic or spicy foods.
- Food allergies or sensitivities.
- Wearing poorly fitting dentures or braces.
- Certain medications.
Persistent or recurrent ulcers may also be associated with conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, coeliac disease, or immune system disorders.
Symptoms
Common symptoms include:
- A round or oval sore with a white, yellow, or grey centre.
- A red border around the ulcer.
- Pain or burning, especially while eating or drinking.
- Difficulty speaking or chewing if the ulcer is large or in a sensitive area.
Most ulcers heal without leaving scars.
Possible Complications
Although most mouth ulcers are harmless, complications may include:
- Difficulty eating or drinking due to pain.
- Weight loss from reduced food intake.
- Secondary infection in rare cases.
- Delayed diagnosis of serious conditions such as oral cancer if persistent ulcers are ignored.
How Are Mouth Ulcers Diagnosed?
Healthcare providers may diagnose mouth ulcers by:
- Examining the ulcer.
- Reviewing your medical history and symptoms.
- Ordering blood tests if nutritional deficiencies are suspected.
- Performing a biopsy if an ulcer does not heal or appears suspicious.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the cause and severity.
Home Care
- Rinse with warm salt water.
- Avoid spicy, acidic, or very hot foods.
- Maintain good oral hygiene.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush.
Medications
A dentist or doctor may recommend:
- Antiseptic mouthwashes.
- Pain-relieving gels or mouth rinses.
- Corticosteroid preparations for severe ulcers.
- Vitamin supplements if a deficiency is identified.
Can Mouth Ulcers Be Prevented?
You may reduce your risk by:
- Maintaining good oral hygiene.
- Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals.
- Managing stress.
- Avoiding foods that trigger ulcers.
- Using properly fitted dental appliances.
When Should You See a Doctor or Dentist?
Seek professional care if you:
- Have an ulcer that lasts longer than two weeks.
- Experience unusually large or very painful ulcers.
- Develop frequent recurring ulcers.
- Have difficulty eating or drinking.
- Notice an ulcer accompanied by unexplained weight loss, a lump, or persistent swelling.
These symptoms may require further investigation.
The Bottom Line
Most mouth ulcers are harmless and heal within a couple of weeks, but persistent or recurring sores should never be ignored. Good oral hygiene, proper nutrition, and early medical evaluation can help identify the cause and ensure appropriate treatment. When in doubt, it is always safer to have a persistent mouth ulcer examined by a dental or medical professional.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical or dental advice. Anyone with persistent, recurrent, or unusually painful mouth ulcers should consult a qualified healthcare provider or dentist for proper evaluation and treatment.
