What are the symptoms of mouth ulcers?
Typical symptoms of mouth ulcers include:
- Small, round sores with a white or yellow centre and a red border
- Pain or discomfort in the affected area
- Feeling of burning or tingling before the sore appears
- Difficulties with eating, drinking, or brushing teeth
What causes mouth ulcers?
The exact cause of mouth ulcers isn’t always clear. However, they can be triggered by:
- Stress or anxiety
- Certain foods, including citrus fruits or spicy dishes
- Injury to the mouth, such as biting the cheek
- Hormonal changes
- Some medical conditions like a weakened immune system
How common are mouth ulcers?
Mouth ulcers are quite common, and many people will experience them at some point in their lives. They can affect anyone, but they are more frequent in teenagers and young adults.
Who is more likely to get mouth ulcers?
Certain factors can make someone more likely to develop mouth ulcers, including:
- Being under stress
- Having a family history of mouth ulcers
- Feeling tired or run down
- Having a food allergy or sensitivity
- Medical conditions that affect the immune system
How can I treat mouth ulcers?
Most mouth ulcers heal on their own within a week or two. To ease the pain, you can try:
- Using over-the-counter gels or creams to numb the area
- Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water
- Avoiding spicy or acidic foods that may cause irritation
- Taking pain relief medicine if needed
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How to live with mouth ulcers?
If you frequently get mouth ulcers, it can be helpful to:
- Keep track of what you eat and your stress levels to identify triggers
- Practice good oral hygiene
- Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet
Final thoughts
Mouth ulcers are common and usually heal on their own. If you have concerns about your mouth ulcers or their frequency, it is a good idea to talk to your GP or healthcare provider.
