Mouth ulcers also called Aphthous ulcers or canker sores, are painful sores that may be yellow or red and that develop in the soft tissue lining of your gums, lips, inner cheeks, or palate. There are no definite causes of mouth ulcers, but several different factors, including minor injuries, hormonal changes, and emotional stress can trigger them. Mouth ulcers are not usually contagious. However, they have been linked to serious health conditions, including diabetes, immune disorders, inflammatory bowel disease including ulcerative colitis, celiac disease, HIV, and AIDS.

Mouth ulcers are one of the most common lesions affecting the mouth. Typically, a single mouth ulcer results from damage caused by dental braces, biting the cheek or tongue, or by sharp teeth, brushing, or poorly fitting dentures. These ulcers are called ‘traumatic' ulcers. Furthermore, mouth ulcers can be caused by infections too. Herpes simplex often causes mouth ulcers in children and some adults. Other triggers may include certain nutrient deficiencies, especially vitamin B9 (folate), vitamin B12, zinc, and iron, hormonal changes, emotional stress, lack of sleep, anemia, other blood disorders, and some skin or gastrointestinal disorder. Sometimes mouth ulcers can also be a sign of conditions that are more serious and require medical treatment. 

You can lessen your risk of mouth ulcers by practicing good oral hygiene to keep your mouth as clean as possible, using high-quality toothbrushes, eating a healthy diet that is rich in vitamins A, C, and E, and includes foods such as fresh fruit and vegetables, reducing stress, getting adequate sleep, and by regularly visiting your dentist. The treatment depends on the cause of the ulcers. Even though the majority of mouth ulcers heal on their own, topical medications may be prescribed to reduce pain and the risk of complications. Antiseptic gels, steroid ointments, or medicated mouth rinses are common mouth ulcer treatments. In severe cases, your healthcare provider may prescribe immunosuppressants. If you have unusual large mouth ulcers, sores that don’t heal (more than 3 weeks), eating and drinking problems, and high fever or diarrhea, consult your doctor or dentist immediately. 

ZDN DMO II Rowence F. Zorilla, RND

References:

1. Mouth Ulcers

https://www.dentalhealth.org/mouth-ulcers

2. What Causes Mouth Ulcers and How to Treat Them

https://www.healthline.com/health/mouth-ulcers#prevention-tips

3. Mouth Ulcer

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21766-mouth-ulcer