What causes mouth ulcers?
Mouth ulcers are very common. They can sometimes be linked to infections, but anyone can get them, even if you are healthy. We don't fully understand why some people get recurring ulcers, but if you do, you might need to see your GP. There are certain factors that can make them more likely:
· Dental trauma – accidentally biting or scratching the inside of your mouth
· Burns – eating or drinking something very hot
· Hormonal changes – women may notice more ulcers during menstruation or pregnancy
· Stress and anxiety – high stress levels can make ulcers more likely
What causes mouth ulcers?
Mouth ulcers are very common. They can sometimes be linked to infections, but anyone can get them, even if you are healthy. We don't fully understand why some people get recurring ulcers, but if you do, you might need to see your GP. There are certain factors that can make them more likely:
· Dental trauma – accidentally biting or scratching the inside of your mouth
· Burns – eating or drinking something very hot
· Hormonal changes – women may notice more ulcers during menstruation or pregnancy
· Stress and anxiety – high stress levels can make ulcers more likely
Other causes
· Smoking – can irritate your mouth, even after quitting
· Vitamin or iron deficiencies – low levels of vitamin B12 or iron can increase risk
· Genetics – some people naturally get ulcers more often.
· Certain foods and drinks – tomatoes, chocolate, and cola (which contain benzoic acid) can sometimes trigger ulcers
Other causes
· Smoking – can irritate your mouth, even after quitting
· Vitamin or iron deficiencies – low levels of vitamin B12 or iron can increase risk
· Genetics – some people naturally get ulcers more often.
· Certain foods and drinks – tomatoes, chocolate, and cola (which contain benzoic acid) can sometimes trigger ulcers
Treating mouth ulcers
The good news is that most mouth ulcers heal on their own within a few days. In the meantime, there are ways to ease the pain:
1. Gentle brushing
Be careful when brushing your teeth. Knocking an ulcer with your toothbrush can be painful, so brush gently around the affected area.
2. Medication and lifestyle tips
If stress is a trigger, try relaxation techniques and a less stressful routine. Over-the-counter treatments like medicated mouthwashes or gels can help numb the pain and protect the ulcer. Always check for allergies and ask your dentist or pharmacist if these are suitable for you. Rinsing your mouth with warm salty water is a simple, effective alternative.
Treating mouth ulcers
The good news is that most mouth ulcers heal on their own within a few days. In the meantime, there are ways to ease the pain:
1. Gentle brushing
Be careful when brushing your teeth. Knocking an ulcer with your toothbrush can be painful, so brush gently around the affected area.
2. Medication and lifestyle tips
If stress is a trigger, try relaxation techniques and a less stressful routine. Over-the-counter treatments like medicated mouthwashes or gels can help numb the pain and protect the ulcer. Always check for allergies and ask your dentist or pharmacist if these are suitable for you. Rinsing your mouth with warm salty water is a simple, effective alternative.
When to see a dentist
Most mouth ulcers are harmless, but it's important to watch them carefully. If an ulcer doesn't heal after two weeks, see your dentist as soon as possible. Rarely, a persistent ulcer can be a sign of something more serious, like mouth cancer.
When to see a dentist
Most mouth ulcers are harmless, but it's important to watch them carefully. If an ulcer doesn't heal after two weeks, see your dentist as soon as possible. Rarely, a persistent ulcer can be a sign of something more serious, like mouth cancer.