Caring for a Mouth Ulcer: When to Go to the Dentist 

18 Aug Caring for a Mouth Ulcer: When to Go to the Dentist 

Small and painful mouth ulcers like canker sores are a common oral health complaint. They can appear anywhere in the soft tissues of your mouth, including the lips, cheeks, tongue, and gums. They are often caused by minor injuries (like a bite to the cheek) or hormonal changes. 

Mouth ulcers typically last two to three weeks and do not usually require special treatment or care. However, poor oral hygiene can make them take longer to heal. While most types of mouth ulcers are benign and will heal on their own, they can sometimes indicate major health issues like oral cancer. 

Caring for a mouth ulcer at home can be easy, but we will also explain when it is time to visit a dentist or doctor for further evaluation.

Types of Mouth Ulcers

Canker Sores 

Canker sores are the most common type of mouth ulcer. We are not sure what causes them or why they affect some people more than others. Links have been made between minor lacerations (cuts), acidic foods, or stress being the cause of canker sores. They are usually white or pale yellow rimmed with red. Unlike cold sores, canker sores are not caused by the herpes simplex virus, so they are not contagious. 

Oral Lichen Planus 

This immune system response typically affects women (and those assigned female at birth) who are 50 or older. It creates a painful and itchy lace-like rash with bright white sores inside the affected area.

Oral Thrush 

This overgrowth of yeast causes a fungal infection inside the mouth. Oral thrush is common in those undergoing antibiotic treatments and those with weakened immune systems (like infants and children). Thrush causes thick patches of red and white ulcers. The most common location on infants is the tongue. 

Leukoplakia 

This condition is caused by excess cell growth and chronic irritation (usually from smoking or chewing tobacco). Leukoplakia ulcers appear white or gray. Any chronic mouth ulcers warrant a medical examination.

Erythroplakia 

Typically caused by smoking or chewing tobacco, these ulcers are generally found on the lower gums and underneath the tongue. These red patches are often precancerous (or cancerous) and should be checked by a medical professional. 

Oral Cancer 

These sores look much like canker sores but do not heal independently. A doctor must examine any sores lasting more than three weeks, as they could be a sign of oral cancer. 

Treatment for Mouth Ulcers

Most mouth ulcers are benign and will heal on their own, but there are several things you can do to speed up healing and make yourself more comfortable. Caring for a mouth ulcer can be as simple as following the following steps:

1. Keep your mouth clean, brush twice a day, floss, and use mouthwash once a day.
2. Rinse with warm salt water several times a day.
3. Drink lots of water to keep your mouth clean. 
4. Avoid spicy, acidic, and crunchy foods until the ulcer has healed.
5. Use OTC (over-the-counter) medicines like ibuprofen for pain relief if needed.

When to Visit the Dentist 

You should consult your dentist if you have mouth ulcers that are causing you exceptional pain or worry. Poor oral health can contribute to the pain, as lingering bacteria get into the ulcer, making it worse. Visiting your dentist for a routine cleaning and helping build your oral health routine can help you keep the ulcers from feeling worse.

You should make an appointment with your dentist if:

• The ulcer is larger than a dime
• There are several large ulcers at the same time
• You are worried they are related to thrush, oral cancer, or erythroplakia
• The ulcer has lasted three weeks or more

Your dentist might recommend using an antiseptic mouthwash, steroid ointment, or immunosuppressants. If they suspect the sores are a sign of oral cancer, they will advise you to visit your healthcare provider for further testing. 

Affordable Dental Care in Prescott, Arizona

Keeping up with your daily oral health routine and visiting a dentist twice a year can help lower your chance of developing mouth ulcers. Here at Hicks Dental Group, we offer excellent dental care at affordable prices. Our dentists and hygienists can provide the treatment you need to prevent dental problems and advise you on keeping your mouth healthy, including caring for a mouth ulcer. If you live in the Prescott area, contact us today to make an appointment.

 

 

Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (8/17/24). Photo by Timothy Dykes on Unsplash.