Physical Injury
- Accidentally biting the inside of your cheek or lip
- Sharp edges on teeth or dental work
- Poorly fitting dentures or braces
- Aggressive tooth brushing
- Burns from hot foods or drinks
Mouth Ulcers / Sores
Schedule an AppointmentMost people have experienced a mouth ulcer at some point—a painful sore that makes eating, drinking, and even talking uncomfortable. While most ulcers are harmless and heal on their own within a week or two, persistent or recurring ulcers can be a sign of an underlying health issue that needs attention.
The board-certified periodontists at Park Cities Periodontics & Implant Dentistry specialize in identifying the root causes of oral health concerns and developing effective treatment plans that address both immediate discomfort and long-term outcomes.
What Are Mouth Ulcers?
Mouth ulcers can appear on your gums, tongue, inner cheeks, lips, or the roof of your mouth. There are different types of mouth sores, each with different characteristics and treatment needs.
Schedule an AppointmentCanker Sores
Canker sores (aphthous ulcers) are the most common type of mouth ulcer, affecting about 1 in 5 people regularly. They are usually small (under 5mm), oval-shaped and have a white or yellow center surrounded by a red border. You might have one or several. Canker sores typically heal on their own within ten to 14 days.
Complex Ulcers
Some people develop larger, deeper or more persistent complex ulcers. These may take longer to heal and can cause more discomfort. They might also leave scarring after they heal. Complex ulcers often signal that it is time to consult a healthcare provider, especially if they occur frequently.
What Causes Mouth Ulcers?
Mouth ulcers develop for a variety of reasons. Common triggers include:
Nutritional Factors
- Vitamin B12 deficiency
- Iron deficiency
- Folate deficiency
- Zinc deficiency
- Poor diet
Lifestyle and Stress
- Emotional stress and anxiety
- Lack of sleep
- Hormonal changes
- Certain foods, especially acidic ones like citrus fruits
- Toothpaste containing sodium lauryl sulfate (the foaming ingredient)
- Certain medications, including some anti-inflammatory drugs and chemotherapy agents
Underlying Health Conditions
- Autoimmune conditions
- Crohn’s disease
- Celiac disease
- Reactive arthritis
- Hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD)
- Viral Infection
- Allergies
- Food or product sensitivities
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Mouth Ulcers?
A typical mouth ulcer appears as a round or oval sore. Most are smaller than 5mm, though some can be larger. The area around the sore is often swollen and red.
When you have a mouth ulcer, you might experience:
- Increased sensitivity to hot, cold, spicy, salty or acidic foods
- Discomfort that worsens when you eat or talk
- A tingling or burning sensation
- Swelling around the ulcer
- Discomfort while brushing your teeth
When Should I See a Periodontist If I Have a Mouth Ulcer?
Most mouth sores heal by themselves within two weeks. If you have a sore that does not heal after three weeks, professional evaluation is recommended. This is especially important if you notice sores returning in the same location or multiple ulcers appearing at once. Pay close attention to ulcers that seem to be getting worse instead of better.
Some symptoms deserve immediate attention. Very large ulcers or those that are painless but long-lasting should be evaluated, as these can sometimes indicate a more serious condition.
If you develop a fever or swollen lymph nodes, seek care as soon as possible. Signs of infection, like increased swelling or redness around the ulcer, also warrant prompt evaluation.
The impact on your daily life is also important. If you are having difficulty eating or drinking, or if severe pain interferes with speaking or sleeping, professional assessment is advisable. Persistent mouth ulcers that interfere with daily function warrant professional evaluation.
How Park Cities Periodontics Treats Mouth Ulcers
For mild mouth ulcers, simple home care measures are often sufficient. If your mouth ulcer is severe, frequent or does not get better with home care, there are professional treatment options.
Schedule an Appointment1
Comprehensive Assessment
Your initial appointment includes a thorough examination to identify the cause and severity of your mouth ulcers. Our board-certified periodontists evaluate your overall oral health, medical history and any lifestyle factors that might be contributing to your condition.
2
Personalized Treatment Planning
Based on this assessment, we develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. This might include:
- Medications to alleviate discomfort
- Antimicrobial mouth rinses
- Recommendations for dietary adjustments
- Prescription corticosteroid treatments for more severe cases
3
Patient Education
You will receive detailed information about your condition and treatment plan. Our team educates in clear, easy-to-understand language and takes time to address any questions or concerns you have.
4
Continuous Support
Our commitment to your care extends throughout the treatment process. You can expect follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and prompt responses to any questions that arise during treatment. We will adjust your treatment plan as needed based on your progress.
How Can I Prevent Mouth Ulcers?
Prevention is an essential part of our treatment philosophy. The recommendations for preventing future outbreaks might include:
Adjusting Your Oral Hygiene Routine
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle brushing technique to avoid irritation. Some patients find switching to a toothpaste without sodium lauryl sulfate helps reduce outbreaks. Keep your mouth clean, but be mindful not to overwhelm it with harsh products or aggressive scrubbing.
Paying Attention To Patterns In Your Diet
If you notice certain foods are triggers, try limiting them. Common culprits include citrus fruits, tomatoes, strawberries and spicy foods. Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals—especially B12, folate and iron—supports your natural defense against ulcers.
Watching Out for Physical Triggers
Slow down and chew carefully if you tend to bite your cheek when eating. If you wear a dental appliance like braces, dentures or a retainer, make sure it fits properly and does not cause irritation. Sharp edges on teeth or dental work should be smoothed out promptly.
Finding Healthy Ways to Manage Stress
Since stress can trigger outbreaks, finding effective ways to handle life’s pressures matters. Whether you prioritize regular exercise, try meditation or work on improving the quality and quantity of your sleep, stress management strategies can help prevent ulcers from forming.
FAQs
Do mouth ulcers mean you are getting sick?
Not necessarily. Although they can sometimes be a sign of an underlying health condition or a weakened immune system, most mouth sores occur for simpler reasons like minor injuries, stress, or certain foods. However, if you are getting frequent ulcers along with other symptoms like fatigue or fever, it is a good idea to have a medical evaluation.
What is the difference between mouth ulcers and cold sores?
Though people often confuse them, mouth ulcers and cold sores are distinct conditions:
- Mouth ulcers only appear inside your mouth. They are not contagious, and though they can be uncomfortable, they typically heal on their own within two weeks.
- Cold sores usually appear on the outside of your mouth, typically on or around your lips. They are caused by the herpes simplex virus and are highly contagious. Treatment typically involves antiviral medications or topical creams.
Are mouth ulcers a sign of cancer?
Usually not. However, any mouth ulcer that persists for more than two weeks should be professionally evaluated, especially for individuals who consume alcohol regularly or use tobacco products. Tobacco and alcohol use, individually and together, increase the risk of oral cancer.
How do I do a salt water rinse?
Make a saltwater rinse by mixing one teaspoon of salt into one cup of lukewarm water. Take a mouthful of the liquid and gently swish it around for 15 to 30 seconds, making sure it covers the affected area, then spit it out. Do not swallow it. Repeat this process several times per day.
Get Expert Care for Mouth Ulcers in Dallas
Whether you are dealing with recurring ulcers, concerned about an ulcer that will not heal or simply want expert advice on prevention, we are here to help. Our board-certified periodontists, Dr. Beth Tomlin and Dr. Stephanie Bowers, specialize in identifying and treating the root causes of oral health problems.
Contact Park Cities Periodontics & Implant Dentistry at (214) 522-9700 to schedule your consultation, or request an appointment online. We are here to help you maintain a healthy, confident smile.
Park Cities Periodontics And Implant Dentistry
Phone: (214) 522-9700
Fax: (214) 522-8181
Address: Preston Commons, East Tower