WHAT IS MOUTH ULCERS?
Mouth Ulcers commonly known as canker sores are painful lesions in the mouth or at the base of the gums or inside cheeks or lips. In scientific terms, it is the loss of tissue lining in the mouth. These are nothing to worry about as they are non-contagious and go away in around a week or two. However, if these are not healed in the period as said so or are large and extremely painful then it is advised to visit a dentist. The pain sometimes can be to the extent that it can make eating, talking and drinking difficult and uncomfortable.
CAUSES OF MOUTH ULCERS
Women, children and the one having a family history are most prone to developing Mouth Ulcers. Though the exact cause of Mouth Ulcers could not be known several factors can attribute to the same:
- Trauma or Injury from hard brushing sports injury, accidents or dental work
- Bacterial or Fungal infections
- Stress can also be a reason and is most common in teens
- Intake of acidic food or drinks
- Hormonal changes
- Mouth rinses which contain sodium lauryl sulfate
- Lack of vitamins such as B-12, zinc, folate, and iron
TREATMENT OF MOUTH ULCERS
Mouth Ulcers do not need treatment as they go away with time. But if the ulcers are large and extremely painful please visit your dentist for treatment options:
- Rinse with salt water and baking soda
- Apply pain relief ointments like Orajel or Anbesol
- Apply ice to canker sores or use cold water
- Placing old tea bags on the sores
- Drink cool chamomile tea
- Milk of magnesia can also be a good option and is advised to place on Mouth Ulcers
HOW TO AVOID MOUTH ULCER?
- Eat a healthy and balanced diet
- Avoid spicy and acidic food and beverage
- Brush gently
- Drink plenty of water
- Adopt means to reduce stress
- Have a proper sleep
TYPES OF MOUTH ULCERS
The uncomfortable and painful sores can be of various types. The most common amongst these are:
Canker Sores
These are small white patches with red borders. Being non-contagious the reason or cause is unknown but usually, trauma is the most common reason. They heal on their own with the time that might take a week and a half. Spicy, acidic and citrus food should be avoided.
Cold Sores
These appear in a cluster of red, raised blisters outside mouth especially lips. These are filled with fluid which can break making fluid to leak. Though they are highly contagious, yet they heal on their own in an about a week.
Candidiasis
It is a yeast infection which appears inside the mouth on soft and moist tissue. It appears as a white patch with a red base. The cause of developing such sore is fungus and people with a weak immune system or people with poor health or diabetic patients are more prone to these sores. If the case of sore is candidiasis, then one should seek advice from Dental Professional.
Leukoplakia
These are tough white patches which appear anywhere in the mouth. Though these are not painful or contagious but can have more serious concerns. Therefore, it is advised to visit a Dental Professional in this case.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q.1. Do Mouth Ulcers Lead To Oral Cancer?
Most mouth ulcers are harmless and can be treated on their own with time. However, there can be a slight symptom of Mouth Cancer.
The ulcer which was developed under the tongue can be a sign of mouth cancer although, it can appear anywhere in your mouth. The cause of these symptoms is usually unknown and last a long time.
One should beware of these symptoms and should visit a dentist in case any unware symptom appear in the mouth.
Q.2. How Are Mouth Sores Treated?
- Avoid spicy, salty, citrus or hot food
- Gargle using salt water
- Consume cold food and beverages
- Avoid picking and squeezing blisters
- Do not consume tobacco or smoke cigarettes
- Take over the counter medication in consultation with the doctor
Q.3. How Long Does It Take To Heal Ulcers?
The minor canker sore can take from 7-10 days to 3 weeks while a major canker sore takes around 6 weeks to heal.
Q.4. Can One Apply Toothpaste To Ulcers?
Toothpaste not only help to prevent ulcers, but they also help to keep you afresh and prevent bad breath.
Q.5. How Can You Get Rid Of Mouth Ulcers Permanently?
Follow a balanced diet and a healthy oral health routine. Keep your mouth clean always.