The Top 10 Causes of Mouth Ulcers and How to Avoid Them

Introduction

Imagine you're enjoying a meal, savoring every bite, when suddenly, a sharp pain strikes the inside of your mouth. You investigate, only to discover a small but mighty foe – a mouth ulcer. Maybe you are prone to ulcers in the mouth and seem to get them all the time – or perhaps you've just got your first one.

Uninvited and unwelcome, these canker sores can be painful and can turn a delightful dining experience into a discomforting ordeal. But fear not! Understanding the top 10 causes of mouth ulcers can empower you to take proactive measures to keep them at bay.

What is a Mouth Ulcer?

A mouth ulcer, also known as a canker sore, is a painful, shallow sore or lesion that develops on the mucous membranes inside the mouth. These ulcers can appear on the inner cheeks, inner lips, gums, tongue, or the roof of the mouth. Mouth ulcers are quite common and can affect people of all ages.

Mouth ulcers are typically round or oval-shaped with a white or yellowish center with a faintly red border. In some cases, they may be surrounded by inflammation. They vary in size and are usually measured in millimeters. Mouth ulcers can cause discomfort or pain, especially when talking, drinking, or eating (especially food that is sour, salty, or spicy). The skin around the sores may also be swollen, intensifying the pain.

While mouth ulcers can be bothersome, they are usually harmless and not contagious. They heal on their own within one to two weeks without special treatment. Treatment can help relieve the symptoms and hasten the healing process. You can buy mouth ulcer treatment online from Online Pharmacist.

However, larger or more persistent ulcers may be a symptom of an underlying health condition and may require medical attention.

Different Types of Mouth Ulcers

If you find yourself dealing with recurring mouth ulcers, you might be experiencing aphthous ulcers, commonly known as canker sores. These pesky sores impact approximately 25% of the population, often debuting in childhood. They are more prevalent in women and can have a familial tendency. Aphthous ulcers often show up between ages 10 and 40, and their comeback patterns can differ, ranging from days to years. Some people may feel a burning sensation before an ulcer appears. The good news is that these ulcers tend to bother you less often as you get older and may eventually stop coming back altogether.

Aphthous ulcers come in three variations:

Minor Aphthous Ulcers

Minor aphthous ulcers are the most prevalent type of mouth ulcers. They are small, usually less than 5mm in size, and look pale yellow. Fortunately, they're not very painful and heal in about 1–2 weeks. These little ulcers happen a lot, in fact, about 8 out of 10 cases. They might bother you for about a week, but then they're gone without causing any scars.

Major Aphthous Mouth Ulcers

Another type of mouth ulcer that are bit larger and more bothersome – is called a major aphthous ulcer. They're not as common, showing up in about 1 in 10 cases. Unlike the smaller ones, these ulcers are bigger, measuring 10mm or more. They can be painful when they appear and stick around for a few weeks to months, possibly leaving a scar. You usually get one or two of these at a time, and they can make eating a bit uncomfortable. Getting medicine from an online pharmacy UK can help you feel better and make your healing faster.

Herpetiform Mouth Ulcers

Now, there's a different kind of mouth ulcer called herpetiform ulcers, and despite the name, they have nothing to do with the herpes virus. These are tiny, pinpoint ulcers, usually found on the tongue, and about 1-2 mm across. They show up in around 1 in 10 cases, and you might have multiple ulcers at the same time. Sometimes, they even merge into irregular shapes. The good news is they usually heal within a month, and each ulcer can last from one week to two months. So, despite their small size and occasional merging, they're not as problematic as their name might suggest.

If you're experiencing persistent ulcers it might signal an underlying condition like Coeliac disease or Crohn's disease. It's essential to consult with a healthcare professional for the right evaluation and guidance.

What Causes Mouth Ulcers?

Canker sores, also known as mouth ulcers, can be caused by various factors, such as:

Mouth Injury

The tissues in your mouth are delicate and sensitive, and it doesn't take much to hurt it. Brushing or flossing too hard, rubbing your broken teeth inside your cheek, getting an injury during dental work or playing sports, accidentally biting your cheek or tongue while eating, or getting a hit to the jaw can cause canker sores.

Stress and Anxiety

Stress causes various adverse effects on the body, including impacts on oral health. High-stress levels can lead to mouth ulcers. A hectic lifestyle with little sleep and no relaxation time may trigger these ulcers, especially if you're already prone to them.

A 2017 study in Iran with 54 participants found a link between recurring mouth ulcers (known scientifically as recurrent aphthous stomatitis or RAS) and higher levels of anxiety and depression in those experiencing them.

Food Intake

Certain foods can act as triggers for canker sores. Foods to avoid with mouth ulcers include salty and spicy foods, as well as acidic drinks like oranges, lemons, tomatoes, and pineapples. For some individuals, specific foods like coffee, peanuts, almonds, strawberries, cheese, tomatoes, and wheat flour can be potential triggers due to underlying sensitivities.

Furthermore, hot foods can scald your mouth or tongue causing mouth ulcers. If you enjoy crispy snacks, be aware that sharp, spiky foods can also cause mouth ulcers by creating tiny injuries on the wet skin inside your mouth as you crunch on them.

Nutritional Issues

A deficiency in certain vitamins and minerals, such as iron, zinc, and B vitamins (including B12) may contribute to the development of canker sores. Research indicates that an extra intake of vitamins and supplements especially vitamin B12 might help reduce the occurrence of mouth ulcers.

Mouth Irritation and allergies

Oral hygiene products are helpful for oral health by removing plaque and freshening breath. However, toothpaste or mouthwash containing sodium lauryl sulfate can lead to canker sores, especially if you're sensitive to this ingredient.

Braces, retainers, false teeth, and oral piercings like lip or tongue jewelry can also cause recurring mouth ulcers due to irritation to delicate oral tissues, particularly along the gum line. Moreover, allergies to certain foods or certain bacteria in the mouth can trigger canker sores.

Hormonal Fluctuations and Genetic Predisposition

Changes in hormones during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopause can cause mouth ulcers in certain women. Some women may also experience gum irritation during their menstrual periods.

Additionally, your genetic makeup is also responsible for mouth ulcers. If you often get mouth ulcers, it could be because it runs in your family – about 40% of people with recurring ulcers say it's a family thing.

Medical Condition and Poor Immune System

Your mouth and gut are connected, and imbalances in the gut, acid reflux, or serious conditions like Coeliac disease and inflammatory bowel diseases can cause mouth ulcers. These autoimmune diseases lead to inflammation in the digestive health system, including the mouth.

Also, Behcet's disease, HIV/AIDS, and a faulty immune system are linked to canker sores. While the specific immune system factor triggering canker sores is not clearly defined, evidence suggests that gastrointestinal problems and other diseases contribute to or cause mouth ulcers. Seeking stomach and digestive care is crucial, especially for inflammatory bowel diseases.

Smoking and Improper Oral Hygiene

Research indicates that smokers are more susceptible to mouth ulcers, often experiencing recurrent ulcers due to constant irritation. These ulcers may not always be painful and they usually occur on the lower lip and the side of the tongue. They also have a higher likelihood of transforming into malignancies (oral cancer). Therefore, it is strongly recommended to stop smoking and embrace a healthy lifestyle.

Moreover, maintaining overall health, regular dentist visits, and addressing dental issues promptly are crucial in preventing mouth ulcers. Poor oral hygiene, marked by the buildup of food and debris, and bad breath can contribute to the development of mouth ulcers and other oral health problems.

Prescription Drugs

Mouth ulcers can result from the use of specific medications. If you've recently switched medications and are facing mouth ulcers, it's advisable to reach out to your physician.

Viruses and Bacteria

Viral infections like the common cold, flu, herpes simplex (the cold sore virus), chickenpox, and hand foot and mouth disease, can lead to mouth ulcers. While viruses are the primary cause, bacteria like streptococcus and actinomyces can also contribute to mouth ulcers, causing sores and swelling, particularly with bacterial overgrowth or exposure to new organisms not typically found in the mouth.

How To Prevent Mouth Ulcers?

Preventing mouth ulcers is essential for oral health. Here are some effective practices to keep them at bay:

• Be cautious while chewing to prevent irritation.
• Allow your food to cool down before eating to avoid mouth injuries.
• Brush your teeth carefully to prevent irritation and use a soft toothbrush.
• Consume a well-balanced diet and vitamin and mineral supplements to ensure proper nutrition.
• Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and timely intervention.
• Brush and floss after meals to keep your mouth clean.
• Choose a toothpaste without sodium lauryl sulfate.
• Identify and limit consumption of acidic or spicy foods.
• Drink enough water to keep your mouth moist and reduce irritation.
• Practice stress-reduction techniques like meditation.
• Keep a food diary to identify possible connections between your diet and ulcers.
• Consult your healthcare provider if you suspect medications are causing ulcers.
• Reduce alcohol intake and avoid tobacco products to prevent oral issues.
• If you have braces, use orthodontic waxes to cover sharp edges.

Remember, persistent or severe ulcers require professional evaluation, so consult with a healthcare provider for proper guidance.

How Do I Get Rid of Ulcers in My Mouth?

While mouth ulcers typically heal on their own within a week or two, there are several home remedies and lifestyle changes that may help alleviate discomfort and promote faster healing. In addition to the above precautions here are some additional tips on how to get rid of ulcers in your mouth.

• Gargle with a warm saltwater solution. This can help reduce inflammation and promote healing.
• Rinse your mouth with a diluted hydrogen peroxide solution. Mix one part hydrogen peroxide with an equal part of water.
• Create a paste using baking soda and water, then apply it directly to the ulcer. Rinse thoroughly afterward.
• Consider over-the-counter oral gels, pain relievers, or ointments available through London pharmacy online to provide temporary relief.
• Suck on ice chips or popsicles to numb the area and alleviate pain.

If the ulcers persist, become larger, or are accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or dentist for further evaluation and appropriate treatment.

So, Are You All Set to Fight the Uninvited Allien

Taking proactive steps to prevent mouth ulcers involves a combination of good oral hygiene, a balanced diet, stress management, and addressing underlying health issues. If you experience persistent or severe mouth ulcers, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate treatment.

By knowing the causes and implementing preventive measures, you can significantly reduce the occurrence of painful mouth ulcers in your life.