Almost everyone experiences mouth ulcers at some point. These sores appear on the soft tissues inside the mouth — lips, inner cheeks, gums, tongue, or palate. The cause is inflammation of the mucous membrane. In some cases, ulcers may even occur in the esophagus. Most often, they heal on their own within 1–2 weeks and cause minimal discomfort.
There are two main types of stomatitis:
Aphthous stomatitis — characterized by white or yellowish ulcers with a red border. They may appear singly or in clusters, most commonly on the inside of the cheeks and the palate. They are not contagious.
Causes of mouth ulcers:
Trauma (e.g., from braces, biting the cheek or tongue)
Chemotherapy
Dry mouth
Smoking
Bacterial or viral infections
Weakened immune system
Sexually transmitted infections
Stress
Irritation from strong chemicals
Allergic reactions
Burns from hot food or drinks
Herpetic stomatitis — commonly known as cold sores, usually appear around the lips. These are painful, fluid-filled blisters. Before they form, the affected area may feel irritated, burning, or sensitive. The blisters eventually dry out and form a yellow crust. Herpetic stomatitis is highly contagious.
Treatment of Mouth Ulcers
Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Eliminating the cause can help prevent recurrence. Locally, corticosteroids, antibiotics, and anesthetics may be used to reduce pain and speed up healing.
Prevention:
To prevent recurring stomatitis, it’s recommended to use a soft toothbrush, maintain a healthy diet and proper hydration, treat chronic dry mouth, and use antiseptic mouth rinses.
Mouth Ulcers – Treatment and Prevention
Mouth ulcers are a common issue that can cause discomfort in daily life. They may appear as sores on the tongue, cheeks, palate, or as white patches inside the mouth. Both children and adults can be affected, making eating, speaking, or even breathing difficult. Ulcers can result from food allergies, stress, or poor oral hygiene.
What helps with mouth ulcers?
Many find relief in natural remedies. Herbal treatments with aloe vera, chamomile, and sage can promote healing and relieve pain and inflammation. Gargling with salt water is another effective method.
Mouth Ulcers in Children
Treating mouth ulcers in children requires extra care, as their oral tissues are more sensitive. Alongside herbal remedies, maintaining oral hygiene is crucial. If ulcers are observed, both adults and children should consult a doctor.
Sağlam Ailə Medical Center provides modern treatment options and expert consultations for mouth ulcers. Here, patients can learn about effective remedies, including natural treatments. The center offers personalized care and easy online appointment booking with experienced doctors.
