Mouth ulcers are small, painful sores that can appear on the inside of your lips, cheeks, or gums. Ulcers can make everyday tasks like eating, drinking, and even speaking quite uncomfortable. While they usually heal on their own in a week or two, understanding the causes behind mouth ulcers can help you prevent them from occurring as often.
Let’s explore some of the most common causes of mouth ulcers and what you can do to manage them.
1. Injury or Trauma to the Mouth
One of the leading causes of mouth ulcers is physical injury to the soft tissues in your mouth. This could result from accidentally biting your cheek, brushing your teeth too aggressively, or eating hard or rough foods that scrape the delicate skin inside your mouth.
Solution: Try to be gentle when brushing your teeth and avoid overly crunchy foods. If you’re prone to ulcers, consider using a soft-bristled toothbrush to prevent irritation.
2. Nutritional Deficiencies
A lack of essential vitamins and minerals, particularly B vitamins, iron, and zinc, can contribute to the development of mouth ulcers. Your body relies on these nutrients to maintain healthy tissue and immune function. When your levels are low, you may be more susceptible to ulcers and other oral health issues.
Solution: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help ensure your body gets the nutrients it needs. Consider speaking to your healthcare provider about supplements if you’re experiencing recurrent ulcers.
3. Stress and Anxiety
It’s no secret that stress can affect your overall health, and your mouth is no exception. Emotional stress and anxiety can weaken your immune system, making it harder for your body to fend off irritants or heal damaged tissue. In some cases, stress-related behaviours such as teeth grinding or lip-biting may also lead to ulcers.
Solution: Incorporating relaxation techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga into your routine can help manage stress levels and reduce the likelihood of stress-related ulcers.
4. Hormonal Changes
Hormonal fluctuations, particularly in women, are a known trigger for mouth ulcers. Many women notice they develop more ulcers during certain times in their menstrual cycle, particularly just before or during menstruation. These changes in hormone levels can affect the immune system, leading to increased vulnerability to ulcers.
Solution: Tracking your cycle and noticing when you’re more prone to developing ulcers can help you take preventive steps, such as focusing on proper oral hygiene or adjusting your diet during those times.
5. Food Sensitivities
Certain foods are more likely to trigger mouth ulcers in sensitive individuals. Common culprits include acidic or spicy foods, such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, chocolate, and certain nuts. These foods can irritate the lining of the mouth, leading to ulcers.
Solution: If you notice that certain foods consistently lead to mouth ulcers, it may be helpful to reduce or avoid them altogether. Keeping a food diary can help identify patterns and sensitivities.
6. Underlying Health Conditions
Recurrent mouth ulcers can sometimes be a sign of an underlying health condition. Diseases like Celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, or Behcet’s disease can cause chronic inflammation, which may manifest as ulcers in the mouth. In addition, autoimmune disorders and certain viral infections, like herpes simplex, can contribute to ulcer formation.
Solution: If you experience frequent, long-lasting, or particularly severe mouth ulcers, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider. They can help determine whether an underlying condition is contributing to the issue and recommend appropriate treatment.
7. Medications
Certain medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), beta-blockers, or chemotherapy drugs, are known to cause mouth ulcers as a side effect. Medications that dry out the mouth can also contribute to ulcer development, as reduced saliva flow can make the mouth more prone to irritation.
Solution: If you suspect that a medication is causing your mouth ulcers, consult your doctor. They may be able to adjust your dosage, switch medications, or recommend strategies to reduce irritation.
How to Manage Mouth Ulcers
While preventing all ulcers may not be possible, there are steps you can take to reduce their frequency and severity:
- Maintain proper oral hygiene with a gentle toothpaste and soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Avoid foods that trigger ulcers, such as spicy, acidic, or rough foods.
- Stay hydrated to prevent dry mouth.
- Manage stress through relaxation techniques.
- Use over-the-counter gels or rinses designed to soothe mouth ulcers and promote healing. We recommend Gengigel.
When to Seek Medical Advice
Most mouth ulcers are harmless and will heal on their own. However, if you have ulcers that persist for more than two weeks, are unusually large or painful, or occur frequently, it’s a good idea to consult a healthcare professional. Recurrent or severe ulcers can sometimes indicate an underlying health issue that requires attention.
By understanding the various causes of mouth ulcers and taking steps to manage them, you can minimize discomfort and improve your overall oral health. If mouth ulcers continue to be a problem, seeking advice from a healthcare professional can help you find long-term solutions and peace of mind.