Pharmacy First Scotland: Mouth Ulcer Treatment From Your Pharmacy
Mouth ulcers can be painful, which can make it uncomfortable to eat, drink or brush your teeth.
It’s usually safe to treat mouth ulcers at home, although your pharmacist may advise that yousee your GP or dentist if:
- your mouth ulcer has lasted three weeks
- you keep getting mouth ulcers
- your mouth ulcer becomes more painful or red this could be a sign of a bacterial infection, which may need treatment with antibiotics
Mouth ulcers are also a possible symptom of a viral infection that mainly affects young children, called hand, foot and mouth disease. Speak to your GP or call the NHS 24 service if you’re unsure.
Read about the symptoms of hand, foot and mouth disease.
What Are Mouth Ulcers
A mouth ulcer is the loss or erosion of part of the delicate tissue that lines the inside of the mouth .
There are many things that cause mouth ulcers. The most common cause is injury . Other causes include aphthous ulceration, certain medications, skin rashes in the mouth, viral, bacterial and fungal infections, chemicals and some medical conditions.
An ulcer that wont heal may be a sign of mouth cancer.
In most cases, mouth ulcers are harmless and resolve by themselves within 10 to 14 days without the need for treatment.
Baking Soda For Mouth Ulcer:
It contains some medicinal compounds in its tiny particles which act in an optimistic way in the reduction of canker sores naturally. Baking soda is actually a sodium bicarbonate that fights the bacterial effects efficiently, thus this element is skilled in combating the signs of mouth ulcer proficiently, while the neutralize acids wipe out the bacteria from your cells. Letâs find out how to get rid of mouth ulcer with the help of baking soda effortlessly-
How to
- Make a thick paste using 1tsp of baking soda and a few drops of water on your palm.
- Now, apply that paste to your sores directly and let it work there for several hours.
- Try this solution many times a day and you will get completely remedied from those painful sores soon.
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What Causes Mouth Ulcers
The exact cause of mouth ulcers is unknown. But there are several factors that can contribute to the development of these sores:
- Minor tissue injury from dental work, such as having a cavity filled.
- Accidentally biting your cheek or tongue.
- Allergic reaction to certain bacteria.
- Viral, bacterial or fungal infections.
What Causes Cold Sores
Cold sores are sometimes called oral herpes because they are caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 . This virus is very common and highly contagious. It spreads through saliva or close contact often through kissing or by sharing utensils, straws, towels or lip balm with someone who has a cold sore.
You may not know if you have been infected with HSV-1 because symptoms of exposure to HSV-1 are generally mild. Children sometimes develop a fever and small blisters inside and around their mouths when they are first exposed to HSV-1.
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What Does A Mouth Ulcer Look Like
Mouth ulcers are usually round or oval sores that commonly appear inside the mouth on the:
- cheeks
- tongue
They can be white, red, yellow or grey in colour and swollen.
It’s possible to have more than one mouth ulcer at a time and they may spread or grow.
Mouth ulcers shouldn’t be confused with cold sores, which are small blisters that develop on the lips or around the mouth. Cold sores often begin with a tingling, itching or burning sensation around your mouth.
When Should I See A Doctor
Aphthous mouth ulcers can be painful and are often a nuisance but are not serious. Occasionally a mouth ulcer can become secondarily infected with germs . In this case you may notice increased pain or redness, or you may be feeling unwell with a high temperature . Secondary bacterial infections are not common but may need treatment with antibiotic medicines.
Remember, not all mouth ulcers are aphthous ulcers. Other types of ulcer can occur in the mouth and mouth ulcers can be a sign of an underlying illness or disease.
Important: cancer of the mouth can sometimes start as an unusual mouth ulcer that does not heal. You should see a doctor or dentist if you have a mouth ulcer that has lasted for more than three weeks without sign of healing, or is different in any way. This is especially important if you are a smoker. Your GP or dentist may refer you urgently to a specialist. A small sample of the ulcer may be taken in clinic and examined, to exclude cancer.
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Home Remedies For Mouth Ulcer Thatll Work
The mouth ulcer is a small but painful lesion in the mouth, inner cheek, tongue or gums .
Also called canker sore or aphthous ulcer, mouth ulcer is often confused withcold sores. But this one is not contagious, and usually does not need medical treatment. It can heal on its own within one to two weeks .
It also looks different. Cold sores are pus-filledblisters. Mouth ulcers are open lesions enclosed within a white or yellowish ring .
The exact cause of mouth ulcer is unknown. But in most cases, it is a result of damage or trauma to the lining inside the mouth. The reasons can be poor-fitting dentures, over-brushing, or accidental biting in the mouth.
Mouth ulcer usually goes away on its own after a few days or weeks. But it can make eating and talking difficult. So, you might want to get immediate relief using some home remedies for mouth ulcer.
Causes Of Mouth Ulcers
Mouth ulcers can be caused by a wide range of factors including:
- Accidentally biting the inside of your cheek.
- Injury from a toothbrush .
- Constant rubbing against misaligned or sharp/broken teeth.
- Constant rubbing against dentures or braces.
- Burns from eating hot food.
- Irritation from strong antiseptics, such as a mouthwash.
- Ulcers may become worse during periods of stress, illness or extreme fatigue.
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Remedies For Mouth Ulcers
There are no quick fixes for mouth blisters as they need time to heal, but they will usually resolve on their own without treatment. The blisters may be sore for seven to 10 days. Minor blisters will heal in one to two weeks, but major canker sores can take up to four weeks.
While mouth blisters usually heal on their own without treatment, you may be uncomfortable and feel pain. You can manage your mouth blisters at home with over-the-counter medications and self-care practices.
How Can I Get Rid Of A Mouth Ulcer
Most mouth ulcers can be managed at home, without the need to visit your dentist or GP. Most of the time theyll heal on their own.
If a mouth ulcer is causing you pain or discomfort, speak to your pharmacist. They may be able to recommend a protective paste or a painkilling gel to ease your discomfort. These commonly create a barrier over the ulcer to allow it to heal and aim to reduce pain and inflammation while preventing infection.
Your pharmacist may also recommend mouthwashes and lozenges that you can try. None of these can cure your ulcer, but may give you relief from the symptoms while it heals.
Most of the methods you can use to manage a mouth ulcer are non-medical, and include:
Using a soft-bristled toothbrush
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What Are The Symptoms Of Canker Sores
You may have a canker sore if you have:
- A painful sore or sores inside your mouth on the tongue, soft palate or inside your cheeks.
- A tingling or burning sensation prior to the appearance of the sores.
- Sores in your mouth that are round, white, or gray in color, with a red edge or border.
In severe attacks, you may also experience:
- Fever.
What Can You Tell Me About Mouth Ulcers In Kids
Kids can develop mouth ulcers just like adults. You can manage symptoms by giving your child over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Ice, popsicles or cold liquids may help soothe the area. If your child has a mouth ulcer that hasnt healed in two weeks, call your healthcare provider.
A note from Cleveland Clinic
While mouth ulcers usually arent dangerous, they can certainly be painful and inconvenient. Fortunately there are several mouth ulcer treatments and remedies that can ease your symptoms until your lesions heal.
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Possible Causes Of Mouth And Tongue Ulcers
So what causes tongue ulcers? Besides canker sores, there are a number of different possible triggers that can make a mouth ulcer appear.
- Oral thrush: This is a condition caused by an overgrowth of the fungus Candida albicans within the mouth. The fungus creates white, creamy-colored cuts along the inner cheek and tongue that can develop into ulcers if not treated. Aside from the white lesions, oral thrush also presents with cracking at the corners of the mouth, loss of taste, and cottonmouth.
- Injury: Minor injuries can sometimes develop into canker sores or mouth ulcers. Over-eager brushing, dental work, biting your cheek or tongue, or sporting accidents are all possible causes.
- Food sensitivities: For obvious reasons, the surface of your mouth reacts to the food you eat. In some people, foods like chocolate, coffee, strawberries, eggs, nuts, cheese, and spicy or acidic food can provoke enough irritation to form a sore.
- Allergies: Your mouth is home to lots of bacteria, and sometimes your body wants them out. The ulcer that forms is a result of tissue getting caught in the way.
- Bacteria and viruses: Various illnesses can cause mouth ulcers to appear. The most common candidate is called Helicobacter pylori, the same culprit behind peptic ulcers and herpes. Strictly speaking, herpes causes cold sores, which, while not related to canker sores, can develop into more persistent wounds like a mouth ulcer if left unaddressed.
Oral Hygiene: What You Need To Know
Even though moving your mouth can make the pain worse, you should brush your teeth just as well as you usually do when you dont have a canker sore. A soft brush can help to prevent injuries to your gums that could increase the risk of new canker sores developing. There are various ways to clean the spaces between your teeth for instance, with an interdental brush or dental floss. You can ask your dentist for advice to help you find the right option for you.
Its also important to check the ingredients used in the oral hygiene products: Mouthwashes that contain alcohol may make the pain worse, for instance. Some people also react sensitively to toothpaste that has sodium lauryl sulfate in it.
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Are There Ways To Successfully Cope With Behets Disease
Both rest and activity are helpful coping mechanisms. A consistent exercise regimen will make your body feel better, thus easing the pain on your joints and other problem areas. Alternatively, taking some time to rest when you begin to feel harsh pain will also improve your overall mood and lessen the effect of some of the symptoms. Another way to cope is through shared experience and community, which means finding others who also have this condition. This can sometimes be difficult, due to the rarity of this disease, but your doctor can help you find others who may be having similar experiences.
Mouth And Throat Sores From Cancer Treatment
Mouth sores are a common side effect of cancer treatment . Some types of chemotherapy are more likely to cause this than others. Cancer treatments are used to kill the bad cancerous cells, but unfortunately they also affect healthy cells. The cells of the inner lining of your mouth, esophagus and stomach can get damaged too. This can result in symptoms like red areas or a burning feeling in the mouth, painful sores and painful or difficulty swallowing.
Rarity: Rare
Urgency: Primary care doctor
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Who Is At Risk Of Developing Behet’s Disease
There are a few different groups of people that are more likely to develop this disease than others, including:
- Those who live in the parts of the world where this disease is the most common.
- 20-40 year old people.
- Those with specific genes .
- Men, who are more at risk of developing this disease than women.
How Do You Heal A Sore In Your Mouth
Your healthcare provider may prescribe medication to ease your symptoms. Mouth sore treatments may include:
- Steroid gel.
Additionally, there are things you can do at home to reduce discomfort:
- Rinse with warm saltwater a few times each day.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen .
- Avoid squeezing the sores.
- Dont smoke or use any other tobacco products.
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Treating Mouth Ulcer Pain
There is no cure for mouth ulcers, and treatment isnt usually needed since they go away on their own. But they can be uncomfortable, and there are a few ways to ease the pain:
- Over-the counter ointments
- Basic water and baking soda mouth rinse
- Avoid toothpaste and mouthwash with sodium lauryl sulfate, as it may take longer for the ulcer to heal
- Avoid spicy and acidic foods
If you have large or multiple mouth ulcers, your dentist mayprescribe medications that treat the symptoms, or even chemically cauterize the ulcer.
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Diagnosis For Mouth Ulcers
You may not need to see your doctor about a mouth sore unless they are persistent, you have other symptoms, or you are feeling very unwell. Your doctor will take your personal and medical history and do a physical exam to look at your sores.
Your doctor may look to see if you have large white patches on the roof of your mouth to rule out an infection called thrush or for signs of other conditions.
Your dentist can also examine your mouth and diagnose your mouth ulcers during annual checkups and cleanings.
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What Causes Mouth Ulcers And How To Treat Them
What causes mouth ulcers? Mouth ulcers, also known as canker sores, are small and uncomfortable lesions that appear in your mouth and on your gums. Mouth ulcers can make drinking, eating, chewing, and talking a very painful experience.
Although mouth ulcers arent contagious and usually disappear within one to two weeks, you need to see your dentist.
It is necessary to mention that every time you notice something different in your teeth and mouth, you should always visit your dentist for a regular check-up and a diagnosis to avoid complications at a later point. Going to your dentist can help you prevent many dental problems that germs and bacterias can cause.
Ulcers may appear on the tongue and the inner tissues of your mouth, such as inner cheeks, on your lips, and even your throat. These wounds are usually gray, white, or yellow, with a red border surrendering them.
How Are Mouth Ulcers Diagnosed
A mouth ulcer is diagnosed through a simplevisual exam. However, further tests may be needed if you have other worrisome symptoms.
If your oral health expert is unable to identify the origin of your mouth ulcers, or if the ulcers do not respond to standard treatments, you may need a biopsy of the ulcer and some surrounding tissue.
A biopsy is a process that involves the removal of a tissue sample for examination and diagnosis.
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When Should I Call My Doctor About My Cold Sores
You should seek treatment for a cold sore if you have:
- Eczema
- Numerous, frequent or extremely painful cold sores
- An outbreak that doesnt clear up on its own in about 2 weeks
- Sores on your eyes, hands, genitals, or another part of your body
- HIV or cancer
- A compromised immune system, or if you are undergoing chemotherapy or taking medication that weakens your immune system
How Can I Treat A Sore Spot
Most mouth sores will heal on their own over time. However, while your mouth is healing, there are a few things you can do to ease the pain and prevent further irritation. According to the American Dental Association, saltwater or baking soda rinses can relieve your discomfort. There are also over-the-counter topical anesthetics to provide relief. In some cases, your dentist may prescribe an antiviral drug.
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What Are The Symptoms Of A Mouth Ulcer
Mouth ulcers are easy to spot. They usually appear as sores on your lips, gums, tongue, inner cheeks or roof of the mouth. While red around the edges, mouth ulcers are typically white, yellow or gray in the center. You may only develop one ulcer, or there might be more. Other symptoms could include:
- Swelling around the ulcer.
- Increased soreness when brushing your teeth.
- Pain that worsens when eating spicy, salty or sour foods.
How Is Behet’s Disease Diagnosed
There is no single laboratory test that can diagnose Behçets disease. The diagnosis is usually made based on your symptoms, including how often oral ulcers come back. Plus, at least two more of the following:
- Genital sores.
- Eye inflammation.
- Skin problems
- A positive pathergy test .
To make the correct diagnosis, other illnesses that produce mouth sores and closely resemble Behçet’s disease need to be ruled out. Your doctor may order a blood test, which can help rule out some of these other conditions, including systemic lupus, Crohn’s disease and other forms of vasculitis.
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