What Are Oral Ulcers and What Causes Them?

What is an Oral Ulcer?

An oral ulcer is a small, painful sore that forms inside the mouth. These sores can appear on the tongue, gums, inner cheeks, or lips. Often, oral ulcers are also called mouth ulcers or canker sores. While most oral ulcers are harmless, they can cause discomfort while eating, drinking, or talking. Because they are common, many people want to know about mouth ulcer causes, oral ulcer symptoms, and oral ulcer treatment. Understanding how to prevent oral ulcers can help you avoid future problems.

Common Causes of Oral Ulcers

There are many reasons why oral ulcers may develop. Sometimes, the cause is clear. Other times, it is hard to find the exact reason. However, knowing the common causes can help you avoid them. Here are some frequent triggers:

Minor mouth injuries, such as biting your cheek or brushing too hard

Stress or lack of sleep

Certain foods, like citrus fruits or spicy dishes

Hormonal changes, especially in women

Vitamin deficiencies, such as low iron, vitamin B12, or folic acid

Allergic reactions to toothpaste or mouthwash

Medical conditions, such as celiac disease or Crohn’s disease

Some medications, including painkillers or beta-blockers

In rare cases, oral ulcers may be a sign of a more serious health problem. Therefore, it is important to watch for other symptoms.

Symptoms of Oral Ulcers

Oral ulcers have some clear signs. Usually, they start as a small, round, or oval sore inside the mouth. But, other symptoms can also appear. Here are some common oral ulcer symptoms:

Pain or burning in the mouth

Redness around the sore

White, yellow, or gray center

Swelling near the ulcer

Difficulty eating or drinking

Bad breath in some cases

Most oral ulcers heal within one to two weeks. However, if the sore lasts longer, you should seek medical advice.

How Oral Ulcers are Diagnosed

Doctors can often diagnose an oral ulcer by looking at it. First, they will ask about your symptoms and medical history. Next, they may check for possible causes, such as recent injuries or new foods. Sometimes, they may order blood tests to check for vitamin deficiencies or other health problems. In rare cases, a small sample of the sore may be taken for testing. This helps rule out infections or more serious conditions. Most of the time, no special tests are needed.

Treatment Options for Oral Ulcers

Most oral ulcers heal on their own. Still, there are ways to ease pain and speed up healing. Here are some common oral ulcer treatment options:

Rinse your mouth with salt water or baking soda solution

Use over-the-counter gels or ointments for pain relief

Avoid spicy, acidic, or rough foods

Keep your mouth clean by brushing gently

Take vitamin supplements if you have a deficiency

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush

If your ulcer is large, very painful, or does not heal, your doctor may prescribe stronger medicines. Sometimes, mouthwashes with steroids or antibiotics are used. Always follow your doctor’s advice for the best results.

Prevention Tips for Oral Ulcers

Although not all oral ulcers can be prevented, you can lower your risk by following some simple steps. Here are some helpful tips on how to prevent oral ulcers:

Brush your teeth gently and use a soft toothbrush

Avoid foods that trigger your ulcers, such as spicy or acidic items

Manage stress with relaxation techniques

Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals

Drink plenty of water to keep your mouth moist

Avoid using toothpaste or mouthwash with harsh chemicals

Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups

By following these steps, you can reduce your chances of getting mouth ulcers.

When to See a Doctor

Most oral ulcers are not serious. However, you should see a doctor if:

The ulcer lasts longer than two weeks

You have frequent or very large sores

You notice other symptoms, such as fever or swollen glands

You have trouble eating or drinking

The sore keeps coming back

Early medical advice can help find the cause and prevent problems. If you are worried, it is always best to ask a healthcare professional.

If you have persistent or painful oral ulcers, consult an ENT specialist for personalized advice.