Mouth ulcers
Mouth ulcers are painful small lesions in the mouth. They can make talking, eating, or drinking uncomfortable on a regular day. They should usually clear up within a week or 2; if prolonged, consult a doctor.
Causes
- Mouth injury or an accidental bite
- Toothpaste or mouthwash containing sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS)
- An allergic response to oral bacteria
- Dental braces
- Lack of sleep
- Sensitivity to acidic foods and beverages like citrus fruits, pineapple, strawberries, pineapple, chocolate, and coffee
- Nutrient deficiencies, particularly vitamin B9 (folate), vitamin B12, zinc, and iron
- Hormonal changes that happen during menstruation or pregnancy
- Mental stress
Self-help activities
Mouth ulcers are seldom a sign of anything serious but make life uncomfortable.
They usually require time to cure, and there’s no quick fix.
Avoiding things that aggravate your mouth ulcer helps in:
- Speeding up the healing process
- Lessen pain
- Reduce the chance of it reoccurring
Do’s
- Get a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Drink with a straw
- Consume more soothing foods
- Get periodic dental check-ups
- Eat a healthy, proportional diet
Don’t
- Do not eat very acidic, spicy, or salty food
- Do not eat crunchy food, like toast or crisps
- Do not use toothpaste possessing sodium lauryl sulfate
- Do not drink hot or acidic drinks
- Stop using chewing gum
Medical Treatments
A dentist or a doctor may suggest more potent medicine to treat infected or persistent mouth ulcers.
Possible medical aids include the following:
- Steroid tablets or mouth spray
- Pain-numbing gels, sprays or pills, or ointments
- Medical mouthwashes to remove any germs found in your mouth
Reviewed by – Dr. Priyanka, MBBS MD Microbiology
Page last reviewed: 04 October 2022