They make eating agony. They seem to come from nowhere. You poke at them with your tongue and wince. Mouth ulcers are one of the most frustrating common oral problems — and most people have no idea what actually causes them. A mouth ulcer is a small painful sore inside your mouth. They appear on your gums, tongue, inner cheeks, or lips. They are usually round with a white or yellow centre and a red border. The medical term is aphthous ulcer. Most are harmless and heal on their own within two weeks.
What Actually Causes Them? No single cause. Mouth ulcers are usually triggered by a combination of factors. Minor injuries kick things off — you bite your cheek by accident, brush too hard, or wear a sharp brace. Stress weakens your immune system and makes outbreaks more likely. Hormonal changes affect many women. Vitamin B12, iron, and folate deficiencies play a role too. Some people get ulcers after eating certain foods. Citrus fruits, chocolate, coffee, and spicy dishes can trigger them in sensitive people. Sodium lauryl sulfate, found in many toothpastes, is a known irritant for some.
How to Get Rid of Them Faster Most mouth ulcers heal without treatment. But you can speed things up and reduce pain. Rinse with warm salt water several times a day. It helps disinfect the sore and reduces inflammation. Avoid spicy, acidic, or rough-textured foods while it heals. Over-the-counter gels and creams create a protective barrier over the ulcer. They ease pain and help it heal faster. Look for products containing benzocaine or hydrogen peroxide. Rinse with alcohol-free mouthwash — the alcohol in some rinses stings and can delay healing. If an ulcer lasts longer than three weeks, see your dentist. Persistent sores need professional evaluation.
Preventing Future Outbreaks You cannot prevent all mouth ulcers. But you can reduce how often they appear. Manage your stress levels. Eat a balanced diet rich in B vitamins and iron. Avoid foods that trigger your ulcers. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush. Be more careful when you chew. Call 01323 723757 or book at www.meadsdental.com Meads Village Dental Practice