Mouth ulcers, are small but painful lesions that develop inside the mouth. They can make everyday activities such as eating, drinking, and even speaking uncomfortable. While most mouth ulcers are harmless and heal on their own, frequent or severe cases may indicate an underlying issue that requires professional attention.
What Are Mouth Ulcers?
Mouth ulcers are open sores that form on the inner lining of the cheeks, lips, tongue, gums, or roof of the mouth. They are typically round or oval with a white, yellow, or grey centre and a red border. Unlike cold sores, which are caused by the herpes virus and appear outside the mouth, mouth ulcers are not contagious.
Common Causes
There are several reasons why mouth ulcers can occur, including:
- Minor injury – Accidental biting of the cheek, irritation from braces, dentures, sharp or crusty food and sharp or broken teeth.
- Stress or fatigue – High stress levels and lack of rest can trigger ulcers in some individuals.
- Nutritional deficiencies – Low levels of iron, vitamin B12, or folic acid may contribute.
- Hormonal changes – Many people notice ulcers appear during hormonal fluctuations, such as menstruation.
- Certain foods – Spicy, acidic, or citrus foods can trigger or worsen ulcers.
- Medical conditions – Conditions such as celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, or weakened immunity can make ulcers more common.
Symptoms
Most mouth ulcers are easy to recognise. You may notice:
- A round or oval sore inside the mouth
- White, yellow, or grey centre with a red border
- Pain or discomfort, especially when eating, drinking, or brushing teeth
- In some cases, swollen glands or mild fever (with more severe ulcers)
Treatment and Relief
Most mouth ulcers heal naturally within 1–2 weeks without treatment. However, there are ways to reduce discomfort and speed up healing:
- Maintain good oral hygiene – Brush gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoid harsh mouthwashes.
- Use protective pastes – Over-the-counter gels or pastes can form a protective barrier and reduce pain (Orabase Protective Paste)
- Saltwater or antiseptic rinses – Rinsing helps prevent infection and promotes healing. (Cepacaine Mouthwash)
- Pain relief – Over-the-counter pain relievers or numbing gels can ease discomfort.
- Avoid triggers – Steer clear of spicy, acidic, or abrasive foods while the ulcer heals.
When to See a Dentist or Doctor
While most ulcers are harmless, you should seek professional advice if you experience:
- Ulcers that last longer than 2–3 weeks
- Frequent or unusually large ulcers
- Severe pain that doesn’t improve with over-the-counter remedies
- Ulcers accompanied by high fever or swollen lymph nodes
- Difficulty eating or drinking due to pain
Persistent or recurring ulcers may be linked to underlying health issues that need medical investigation.
Final Thoughts
Mouth ulcers are common and usually heal quickly, but they shouldn’t be ignored if they become chronic or unusually severe. Maintaining a balanced diet, managing stress, and practising good oral hygiene can reduce your risk. If you’re concerned about recurring mouth ulcers, speak with your dentist or healthcare professional for tailored advice and treatment.
Why Are My Teeth Suddenly Sensitive?
If you’ve recently noticed a sharp pain when drinking cold water, eating ice cream, or enjoying a hot coffee, you may be experiencing tooth sensitivity.
