Oral Ulcers

Aphthous mouth ulcers
Aphthous mouth ulcers are painful sores that can occur anywhere inside the mouth. They are the most common type of mouth ulcer. At least 1 in 5 people can develop aphthous mouth ulcers at some stage in their life. Women are affected more often than men. Aphthous ulcers usually first occur between the ages of 10 and 40 years. 

The cause is not known. They are not infectious, and you cannot 'catch' aphthous mouth ulcers. In most cases, the ulcers develop for no apparent reason in people who are healthy.

Several genetic and environmental factors have been implicated that favor the development of this condition:

• immunological and hormonal disorders 
• allergies 
• stress 
• heredity 
• microbial infections 
• trauma 
• smoking cessation 
• lack of certain vitamins and elements (B6, B12, folic acid and iron) 
• certain medications (steroids, anti-inflammatory)

Also, the existence of certain conditions such as:

• celiac disease, 
• Adamantiades-Bechet syndrome 
• cyclic neutropenia, 
• Crohn's disease and 
• HIV infection can lead to the induction of recurrent aphthous stomatitis

Clinical Presentation

Mouth ulcers are painful round or oval sores that form in the mouth, most often on the inside of the cheeks or lips.

They're usually white, red, yellow or grey in colour and are inflamed (red and swollen) around the edge.

Although mouth ulcers can be uncomfortable, especially when you eat, drink or brush your teeth, they are usually harmless.

Most mouth ulcers will clear up spontaneously within a week or two.

Treatment

Most mouth ulcers don't require specific treatment, as they will usually heal on their own within 10-14 days.

However, treatment may be necessary if the ulcers are severe, painful or interfere with your daily activities (such as eating). The treatment normally includes corticosteroids and antibiotics.

Self-help tips

If you have a mild mouth ulcer, there are some steps you can take yourself to help your ulcer heal more quickly:

• Use a soft toothbrush when brushing your teeth.
• Avoid hard, sharp, spicy and acidic foods and drinks until the ulcer heals – stick to soft foods that are easier to chew.
• Avoid specific foods that may trigger oral ulcers.
• Reduce your stress levels by doing an activity that you find relaxing, such as yoga, meditation orexercise. Read more about relaxation tips to avoid stress.

If your ulcer has a specific physical cause, such as a sharp tooth or filling cutting the inside of your cheek, it will usually heal naturally once the cause has been treated. If you suspect that a sharp tooth or filling has caused an ulcer, visit your dentist so that they can repair it.