Mouth Ulcers

A mouth ulcer is the inflammation of the oral mucosa. The other name of mouth ulcer in medical category is stomatitis. Trauma, infection, irritants, excessive dryness and hypersensitivity cause a mouth ulcer. Irritation from jagged teeth, cheek biting, mouth breathing and use of stiff toothbrush. Irritants are strong mouthwash or toothpaste, tobacco, alcohol and chemotherapeutic drugs. Hypersensitivity has many predisposing factors like stress, allergies, vitamin deficiencies and viral infection. Destruction of the inner mucosal layer of the oral cavity that will result in a decreased lubrication of the mucosa and disruption of the protective layers. Any fluid or food in the oral cavity further irritates the mucosa resulting in inflammation and pain.

There are six types of mouth ulcers and each type represents manifestation. Acute herpetic stomatitis a small, clear vesicles in single eruption and combined with sore throat, headache, nausea, vomiting and body weakness. This usually lasts for a week. Raised, white patches and ulcers characterize candidiasis mouth ulcer. This can spread in the gastrointestinal tract, skin and respiratory system. A mechanical trauma characterized by small lacerations or abrasions with bleeding or exudates. A cracked and parched lip, tongue and the oral mucosa will notice Xerostomia. Bleeding, ulcerations or retract are common manifestations among other types of mouth ulcers. Chemical irritation produces generalized redness and edema. Aphthous ulcers appear as well-circumscribed lesions with white centers and reddish rings around the periphery.

For the management of mouth ulcers use a brush and floss to clean the teeth and massage the gums several times daily. Use a sponge or soft gauze to clean the oral mucosa to lessen the pain and discomfort. Use water or saline or dilute solution of hydrogen peroxide instead of alcohol-based mouthwash. Baking powder diluted in water is also good. Antifungal, topical and systemic medications prescribed for faster healing.

Common medications are antibiotics that will treat and prevent infections caused by pathogenic microorganisms. Antifungal used to treat fungal infections that are resistant to antibiotics. Corticosteroids to combat severe inflammatory responses. Opiod analgesics to relieve moderate to severe pain that caused by mouth ulcers.

It is important to modify the diet into bland diet a diet that has low salt content. Drink lukewarm water or any kind of fluids to minimize discomfort and result in increased intake. Always consume vitamin c for faster healing and iron to produce red blood cells to supply nutrients.

Minimize intake of spicy foods and acidic beverages. Avoid chewing gums for over one hour because the buccal mucosa will be stretch causing more pain. Use soft bristle toothbrush, non-alcohol based mouthwash and avoid using products rich in nicotine.

Have a regular dental checkup for maintenance of healthy gums and avoid further complications.