Mouth ulcers are small, painful sores on the inside of the lips or cheeks, the tongue or the gums. Most are harmless and heal on their own within one to two weeks.
Common causes
- Biting the cheek, a sharp tooth or filling, or a rubbing denture or orthodontic appliance.
- Brushing too hard.
- Stress, tiredness or being run down.
- Hormonal changes.
- Low iron, vitamin B12 or folate.
- Some medicines, and some medical conditions such as coeliac disease.
Many people get recurring ulcers, called aphthous ulcers, with no clear cause. They are not contagious. Cold sores are different: they are caused by a virus and usually appear on the outside of the lips.
What helps
- Rinse with warm salt water.
- Avoid spicy, salty and acidic foods until it heals.
- Use a soft toothbrush.
- Ask a pharmacist about a protective gel or an antiseptic mouthwash.
- If a sharp tooth, filling or denture is rubbing, have it smoothed or adjusted.
When to get it checked
- An ulcer that has not healed after two weeks.
- Ulcers that keep coming back or are unusually large.
- An ulcer that is painless, or comes with a lump or a red or white patch.
- Ulcers with fever, or that make it hard to eat or drink.
A sore that does not heal should always be examined, because in a small number of cases it can be an early sign of mouth cancer. The soft tissues of the mouth are checked at every dental check-up. This article is general information and not a substitute for advice from your own dentist or doctor.
To book at Glenmore Park Dental Services, Shop 17b, 11 Town Terrace, Glenmore Park, book online or call (02) 4733 1197. We are open 9:00am to 6:30pm, Monday to Saturday.