Mouth ulcers, also known as canker sores, are small, painful sores that develop inside the mouth. They can appear on the tongue, inner cheeks, gums, or lips, making everyday activities like eating, drinking, and speaking uncomfortable. While they are usually harmless and heal on their own, frequent or severe ulcers can be a sign of an underlying health issue.

This guide will explore what causes mouth ulcers, how to treat them effectively, and the best ways to prevent them from coming back.

What Are Mouth Ulcers?

Mouth ulcers are small, round, or oval sores that are typically white, yellow, or grey with a red border. They are not contagious but can be painful, especially when irritated by food, drinks, or brushing.

There are three main types of mouth ulcers:

• Minor ulcers – Small, round sores that heal within 7–14 days without scarring.
• Major ulcers – Larger and deeper sores that take longer to heal (up to six weeks) and may leave scars.
• Herpetiform ulcers – Multiple small ulcers that merge into larger sores, often more painful and long-lasting.

Common Causes of Mouth Ulcers

Mouth ulcers can be triggered by various factors, ranging from accidental injuries to underlying medical conditions:

• Biting the inside of the cheek or tongue
• Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush
• Dental work, such as braces or ill-fitting dentures
• Emotional stress and lack of sleep can weaken the immune system, making ulcers more likely.
• Low levels of iron, vitamin B12, folic acid, or zinc can increase the risk of developing ulcers.
• Acidic or spicy foods (like citrus fruits, tomatoes, and hot peppers) can irritate the mouth.
• Some people are sensitive to sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS), a common ingredient in toothpaste that may trigger ulcers.
• Some people, particularly women, experience mouth ulcers due to hormonal shifts during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause.
• Conditions like autoimmune diseases, celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, and HIV/AIDS can increase susceptibility to mouth ulcers.
• Certain medications, such as beta-blockers, pain relievers, and chemotherapy drugs, can contribute to mouth ulcers.
• Viral infections like cold sores (caused by the herpes simplex virus) may resemble ulcers but are different conditions.
• Conditions such as oral thrush or hand, foot, and mouth disease can also cause mouth sores.

Symptoms of Mouth Ulcers

Mouth ulcers vary in size and severity, but common symptoms include:

• A small, round, or oval sore with a white or yellow center and a red border
• Pain or discomfort, especially when eating, drinking, or brushing
• Swelling or irritation around the ulcer
• Difficulty speaking or swallowing (in severe cases)

How to Treat Mouth Ulcers

Most mouth ulcers heal on their own within one to two weeks, but treatments can help reduce pain and speed up healing.

Home Remedies for Relief

• Saltwater Rinse – Dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in warm water and rinse your mouth for 30 seconds. This helps reduce bacteria and promotes healing.
• Baking Soda Paste – Mix baking soda with water to form a paste and apply it to the ulcer. It neutralizes acidity and reduces irritation.
• Honey – Applying a small amount of honey to the ulcer can help heal the ulcer due to its natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Coconut Oil – Its antimicrobial properties can soothe pain and prevent infection.
• Aloe Vera Gel – Applying natural aloe vera can reduce inflammation and promote healing.

Over-the-Counter Treatments

• Pain Relief Gels – Topical gels containing benzocaine, lidocaine, or choline salicylate numb the area and reduce discomfort.
• Antiseptic Mouthwashes – Chlorhexidine or hydrogen peroxide mouthwashes help prevent infections and promote healing.
• Corticosteroid Creams – Prescription-strength creams may be recommended for severe ulcers.

Dietary Adjustments

• Avoid spicy, acidic, or rough-textured foods that can worsen irritation.
• Stay hydrated and consume nutrient-rich foods, including leafy greens, nuts, and dairy.

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid further irritation.
• Switch to an SLS-free toothpaste if you frequently experience mouth ulcers.
• Floss daily to remove food particles that can irritate sores.

How to Prevent Mouth Ulcers

While mouth ulcers are sometimes unavoidable, certain lifestyle changes can help reduce their frequency.

• Ensure adequate intake of iron, vitamin B12, folic acid, and zinc to prevent nutritional deficiencies.
• Reduce consumption of highly acidic or spicy foods if they tend to trigger ulcers.
• Practice relaxation techniques like meditation or deep breathing.
• Aim for 7–9 hours of sleep per night to support your immune system.
• Be mindful when eating to avoid biting your cheeks or tongue.
• If you have braces or dentures, talk to your dentist about ways to reduce irritation.
• Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your mouth moist and healthy.
• Choose a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid gum irritation.
• Avoid toothpaste containing sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) if you are prone to ulcers.

When to See a Doctor or Dentist

Most mouth ulcers heal without medical intervention, but you should seek professional advice if:

• An ulcer lasts more than three weeks.
• Ulcers are large, painful, or keep coming back.
• You have difficulty eating, drinking, or speaking due to severe pain.
• You experience unexplained weight loss, fever, or swollen lymph nodes.
• There are multiple ulcers or an ulcer with irregular borders.

Final Thoughts: Managing Mouth Ulcers for Better Oral Health

Mouth ulcers are a common but manageable condition. By understanding the causes, using effective treatments, and making simple lifestyle adjustments, you can minimize discomfort and prevent future outbreaks.

If you experience frequent or severe mouth ulcers, it may be time to visit a dental professional. Book an appointment with Caring Dental today for expert advice and personalized treatment to keep your oral health in top shape.