Health > Reduce Mouth Ulcer and Mouth Soreness with these Tips
9th Sep 2022
Mouth Ulcer and Canker Soreness
Health

Reduce Mouth Ulcer and Mouth Soreness with these Tips

Mouth ulcers are also identified as canker sores. These are small lesions that occur in the mouth’s mucous membranes. Mouth ulcers and canker soreness refer to mouth soreness or lesions in the mouth. However, mouth ulcers are larger lesions that can be either red or white. They can form on the tongue, gums, inside the cheeks, or on the roof of the mouth. Canker soreness refers to smaller lesions that are usually red and occur on the tongue or inside the cheeks.

What Do Mouth Ulcers and Canker Soreness Look Like?

Mouth ulcers are usually small, round, or oval lesions that are either red or white. They can form on the tongue, gums, inside of the cheeks, or on the roof of the mouth. Mouth ulcers are often painful and can make eating and talking difficult.

Mouth ulcers are common, affecting about 20% of the general population. They are most common in people between the ages of 10 and 20, but can occur at any age. Mouth ulcers cannot spread from one person to another and are not usually signs of a more serious medical condition.

Causes of Mouth Ulcers and Canker Soreness

The most common cause of mouth ulcers is damage to the mucous membranes, and it can be due to trauma, such as biting your cheek or tongue, or wear and tear from tooth brushing. Other potential causes include viral infections, such as the herpes simplex virus, or fungal infections, such as candidiasis. Stress, a deficiency in specific nutrients, such as iron or vitamin B12, and certain medications, such as those used to treat cancer, can also contribute to the development of mouth ulcers.

How to Prevent Mouth Ulcers and Canker Soreness

There is no surefire way to prevent mouth ulcers or canker soreness, but you can do a few things to reduce your risk.

First, it is essential to practice good oral hygiene. It means brushing your teeth twice daily, flossing daily, and using mouthwash. Additionally, try to avoid injuring your mouth. It includes avoiding chewing on hard objects like ice and being careful when brushing your teeth.

Second, you can try to reduce stress in your life. Stress can contribute to the development of mouth ulcers, so finding ways to manage stress can help reduce your risk.

Third, eat a healthy diet. A balanced diet including lots of vitamins and fibres like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help reduce your risk of mouth ulcers. Also, avoid spicy or acidic foods, which can irritate the mouth and make mouth ulcers more painful.

If you are prone to mouth ulcers or canker soreness, you can do a few things mentioned below to speed up the healing process.

Home Treatments to Treat Mouth Ulcers and Canker Soreness

Most mouth ulcers will heal independently within a few days to a week. Home treatment can help to speed up the healing process and ease any pain or discomfort. Treatment options include using a topical cream or gel, taking an over-the-counter pain reliever, and avoiding spicy or acidic foods. If mouth ulcers do not improve with home treatment or become more frequent, it is essential to see a doctor or dentist, as other medical conditions can cause mouth ulcers. Mouth ulcers are common, but that doesn’t make them any less painful and irritating.

Mouth Soreness Treatments Performed by Doctors for Mouth Ulcers and Canker Soreness

Doctors may perform a few different surgeries to treat mouth ulcers and canker soreness. One option is called electrocautery. It is a procedure where a small electric current is used to burn away the ulcer, and this is usually only used for large or persistent ulcers. Another option is called cryosurgery. It is a procedure where the ulcer is frozen and destroyed, you can use this for both small and large ulcers.

Finally, there is surgery to remove the ulcer, which is usually only done for large or persistent ulcers. The type of surgery that is performed will depend on the size and location of the ulcer. These procedures are usually conducted on an outpatient basis, meaning you will not have to stay in the hospital overnight. Recovery from these surgeries is usually pretty quick. You may have some soreness and swelling for a few days, but this should go away. You may also have numbness in the area where the ulcer was, which is usually temporary and will go away within a few weeks.

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Conclusion

If you have a mouth ulcer that does not go away on its own or becomes more frequent, talk to your doctor about your options. Surgery may be an option to help treat the ulcer and prevent it from returning. Other medical conditions can cause mouth ulcers, so it is essential to rule out any underlying causes.

FAQs 

Can canker sores turn into ulcers?

Canker sores are not the same as ulcers, although they can sometimes be confused. Canker sores are minor, shallow wounds that occur inside the mouth, lips, and throat. They don’t spread, are non-transferable, and usually heal within a week or two.

How long can canker sores or mouth ulcers last?

Canker sores typically go away within a few days to a week. Mouth ulcers may last up to two weeks.

What drink is good for ulcers?

There is no specific answer to this question, as different people may have different opinions. Some people may find drinking milk or herbal tea helps to soothe their ulcers, while others may find drinking water or juice more effective. Ultimately, drinking whatever beverage you find most helpful in relieving your symptoms is essential.

Can mouth canker sores spread?

Canker sores are not contagious and cannot be spread from person to person.

What lack of vitamins causes mouth ulcers?

Lack of vitamin B12 or iron can cause mouth ulcers as this deficiency can result in anaemia leading to symptoms like mouth ulcers