Mouth Ulcers

Key Points

Overview

Mouth ulcers are small, painful sores that can appear anywhere inside your mouth, including on your gums, tongue, or inner cheeks. They are very common and not contagious. While they can be uncomfortable, they are usually harmless and tend to clear up on their own. Most single ulcers result from minor injuries like biting your cheek, ill-fitting dental work, or irritation from food. Other factors like stress, hormonal changes, or certain vitamin deficiencies can also trigger them. Treatment mainly involves managing pain and avoiding further irritation to allow the ulcer to heal naturally. Pharmacists can recommend over-the-counter remedies, and doctors may prescribe stronger treatments for severe cases.

Signs and Symptoms

• Painful sore inside the mouth
• Red, swollen area around the ulcer
• Difficulty eating or drinking
• Discomfort when speaking
• Can appear as a single sore or multiple

Things That Increase the Risk

• Accidental cheek biting
• Poorly fitting dentures or braces
• Rough fillings or sharp teeth
• Cuts or burns from food or drinks
• Food intolerance or allergy
• Damaging gums with a toothbrush
• Stress, tiredness, or anxiety
• Hormonal changes (e.g., pregnancy)
• Certain vitamin deficiencies (iron, B, D, folic acid, zinc)
• Some medications (NSAIDs, beta blockers)
• Stopping smoking

Diagnosis

• Visual examination by GP or dentist
• Review of medical history
• Discussion of symptoms and duration
• Further tests if underlying condition suspected

Treatment & Management

• Avoid spicy, salty, acidic, or rough foods
• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush
• Drink cool drinks through a straw
• Pharmacist-recommended mouthwashes (antimicrobial, salt)
• Painkilling gels, sprays, or tablets
• Corticosteroid lozenges
• Prescription steroids for severe cases
• Regular dental check-ups

Prevention

• Maintain good oral hygiene
• Avoid foods that irritate your mouth
• Manage stress and anxiety
• Ensure a balanced diet
• Address ill-fitting dental work
• Use a soft toothbrush
• Avoid toothpastes with sodium lauryl sulphate

Related Diseases

• Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease
• Oral Lichen Planus
• Crohn's Disease
• Coeliac Disease
• HIV
• Lupus
• Mouth Cancer

Available Treatments

Explore our range of treatment options for Mouth Ulcers: