Mouth Ulcer Causes & Home Remedy Explained

Mouth ulcers are small, irritating ulcers that occur within the mouth on the lips, tongue, gums, cheeks, or palate. They are usually found as round or oval lesions with a yellowish-white or greyish interior and a surrounding red border.

Even though they are relatively harmless and non-contagious, they may cause some inconveniences during daily activities such as chewing, swallowing, and talking. Mouth ulcers are often caused by trivial injuries, stress, hormonal fluctuations, or poor nutrition and resolve spontaneously within one to two weeks.

Keep reading to discover some of the best mouth ulcer treatment methods, practical remedies for ulcers in mouth, and tips to support faster healing. 

What Causes Mouth Ulcers?

Mouth ulcers can occur due to several reasons, including:

• Small tissue injury from dental work, such as having a cavity filled
• Biting the cheek or tongue accidentally
• Immune reactions or sensitivities (e.g., to certain foods or oral products)
• Wearing retainers or braces
• Hormonal changes during your period
• Stress
• Using toothpaste containing sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), which may irritate oral tissues in some individuals
• Consuming a lot of acidic foods, such as oranges, pineapples and strawberries
• Lack of sleep

Common Symptoms of Mouth Ulcers

Mouth ulcers are small, painful, open lesions in the mouth that are easily recognisable. Mentioned below are the key symptoms of this condition:

• Sores on gums, tongue, inner cheeks, lips, or roof of the mouth
• Swelling around the affected area
• Pain or discomfort, especially while eating or speaking
• Increased soreness when brushing teeth
• Pain worsens with spicy, salty, or acidic foods

How to Treat Mouth Ulcers Effectively at Home?

Most minor mouth ulcers heal on their own within one to two weeks. Gentle oral care and simple measures may help ease discomfort while the ulcer heals.

1. Salt Water Rinse

This is one of the most common and easiest home remedies for an oral ulcer. A warm salt-water rinse may help keep the mouth clean and ease discomfort. Rinse gently and spit it out; do not swallow the solution. Just add a spoonful of salt to a cup of lukewarm water, then rinse your mouth for 30 to 60 seconds, up to 2 or 3 times a day.

2. Honey

Some people use honey to soothe an ulcer, but it should not be described as preventing infection or curing mouth ulcers. Honey can also be used along with other substances, such as tea and turmeric, to enhance their effectiveness.

3. Coconut Oil

There is limited evidence that coconut oil treats mouth ulcers. Do not present it as a proven antimicrobial or anti-inflammatory treatment. You can apply coconut oil several times a day.

4. Aloe Vera Gel

This plant is widely known for its soothing effect on various skin problems. Evidence for aloe vera as a mouth-ulcer treatment is limited. It should not be described as a proven way to fight bacteria or cure ulcers.

5. Baking Soda

The function of baking soda is to neutralise the acid in your mouth and maintain the pH levels. A mild baking-soda rinse may help keep the mouth clean. Avoid applying concentrated paste directly to an ulcer, especially if it causes stinging or irritation.

6. Clove Oil

Clove oil contains eugenol, which has antibacterial properties and helps relieve pain due to its numbing effects. Always remember to dilute clove oil with another oil, such as coconut oil, before applying it.

7. Yoghurt (Probiotics)

Yoghurt contains probiotics, which help maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in your mouth. Yoghurt can be eaten as a soft food if tolerated, but it should not be claimed to heal or prevent mouth ulcers.

8. Turmeric Paste

There is insufficient evidence to describe turmeric paste as a proven mouth-ulcer treatment. Avoid recommending direct application as a treatment without clinical support.

9. Chamomile Tea

Evidence is limited on whether chamomile speeds mouth-ulcer healing. It may be described as a soothing drink if tolerated, rather than a proven treatment.

10. Ice Application

Holding a small ice chip near the ulcer may provide temporary relief, but it does not cure the ulcer. By keeping an ice cube in your mouth for a while and placing it directly on the ulcer, you can get temporary relief from the pain.

Key Measures to Prevent Mouth Ulcers

Taking preventive steps can reduce the chances of developing ulcers and the need for frequent mouth ulcer treatment. Here are some strategies to manage the risk factors that contribute to mouth ulcers:

•  Maintain oral hygiene by brushing gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Choose an alcohol-free mouthwash if regular mouthwash causes stinging or irritation.
• Minimise mouth damage by using a soft-bristled toothbrush, eating slowly, and carefully chewing foods to lower the chance of biting your tongue or the inside of your cheeks.
• Limit alcohol, spicy food, and acidic foods (such as citrus fruits), as they can irritate ulcers.
• Boost your intake of vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin B, zinc, and iron.
• Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated.
• Manage stress and fatigue, avoid late nights, and practice relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, tai chi, or deep breathing exercises.
• Engage in regular exercise to enhance your overall health, muscle strength, balance, and endurance.

Most minor mouth ulcers heal within one to two weeks. However, applying basic home treatments may help relieve symptoms and hasten recovery.

It is advisable to monitor your symptoms. If the ulcers become larger, more frequent, or cause severe pain, fever, or other unusual signs, medical intervention is necessary for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Reader Information: The information provided in this article is for general educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. While these home remedies may help relieve minor mouth ulcers, they are not a substitute for professional medical care. Individual responses to remedies may vary. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider or dentist if your symptoms persist for more than two weeks, worsen, or are accompanied by severe pain, fever, or other unusual signs. Always seek professional guidance before trying new treatments, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications.

FAQs 

1. What are the common types of mouth ulcers?

Ulcers in the mouth can be of different types. These may include: minor, major, and herpetiform aphthous ulcers.

2. What common health conditions are associated with mouth ulcers?

Some notable health conditions associated with mouth ulcers include vitamin deficiencies, viral, bacterial, or fungal infections, Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, reactive arthritis, lupus, and Behcet’s disease.

3. Are mouth ulcers more frequent in children or adults?

Mouth ulcers can occur at any age, but they are more common in children and young adults. In adults, ulcers may be caused by lifestyle factors, specific medications, or underlying health conditions. Factors such as stress, minor injuries, accidental biting, and a lack of nutrients can contribute to their formation.

4. Do some medications increase the risk of mouth ulcers?

Certain medications can cause mouth ulcers as a side effect. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), beta-blockers, and certain antibiotics can cause mouth irritation or sores. In addition, chemotherapy and immunosuppressive drugs can also weaken the body's defences, making ulcers more likely.

5. What medications are used to treat mouth ulcers?

Most cases of ulcers in mouth heal on their own, but certain medications and mouth ulcers treatment options can help reduce pain and speed up healing. Common choices include antiseptic gels or mouth rinses to ease discomfort, steroid ointments like triamcinolone to reduce inflammation, and, in serious cases, immunosuppressants.