Mouth Ulcers

Mouth ulcers are also known as ‘canker sores’. They are small painful lesions that can develop in the mouth or at the base of the gums. Though these lesions are not contagious and go away within a week or two, they can often make eating, drinking, and talking uncomfortable.

What can trigger or cause mouth ulcers?

 There’s no definite cause behind on how mouth ulcers are caused, however, certain factors have been identified such as:

a) Food sensitivity to acidic foods

b) Minor injuries in the mouth because of:

• Braces
• Badly fitting dentures
• Sharp teeth
• Rough fillings
• Accidentally biting of cheek and lips while eating
• Hard brushing

c) Cuts or burns by eating or drinking

d) Lack of essential vitamins, especially zinc folate and iron.

e) Emotional stress or lack of sleep

Occasionally, mouth ulcers can also be a sign of more serious condition which includes medical intervention such as:

a) Inflammatory bowel diseases

b) Diabetes mellitus

c) Malfunctioning of immune system

Some symptoms of the mouth ulcers should not be ignored when there is:

a) Unusually large ulcer

b) Ulcer persisting for more than 3 weeks and extending to the lips

c) Ulcers which are painless

d) High fever and diarrhea

How can we prevent mouth ulcers to occur?

1. By keeping mouth as clean and healthy as possible
2. Using high quality toothbrushes
3. Going for regular dental checkups
4. Avoiding food that irritates the mouth
5. Eating whole grain food, alkaline fruits and vegetables

There is no definite cure for mouth ulcers, but certain remedies can help alleviate symptoms and promote faster healing such as gels or ointments containing benzocaine.

You can schedule a consultation appointment with Dr. Seema Bansal for more informantion.