Common Causes of Mouth Ulcers You Should Know

ByAgkidzone Staff

Updated: Oct 17, 2024

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Mouth ulcers, commonly known as canker sores, are small, painful lesions that can appear on the inner cheeks, lips, gums, tongue, or even the roof of the mouth. These ulcers are typically red or yellow and can be quite uncomfortable. While they usually clear up on their own, they can cause discomfort, especially when eating or drinking. Mouth ulcers tend to be more common in women and people under 45. Minor ulcers range in size from 2 to 8 millimeters and heal within two weeks. On the other hand, major ulcers are larger, take longer to heal, and may leave a scar. Let's explore the various causes of mouth ulcers.

Stress or Lack of Sleep

One of the leading causes of mouth ulcers is stress or lack of sleep. It’s estimated that about 20% of adults experience these sores during particularly stressful periods in their lives. When your body is under stress or sleep-deprived, your immune system weakens, leaving you more susceptible to developing mouth ulcers. So, it’s not surprising that they tend to pop up when you’re feeling run-down or anxious. If you’re noticing frequent ulcers, it might be your body’s way of signaling that you need to rest more or manage stress better.

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Minor Mouth Injury

Minor injuries inside the mouth are another common culprit behind mouth ulcers. These injuries can occur from dental work, ill-fitting dentures, braces, or even accidentally biting your cheek or tongue. Overbrushing or using a hard toothbrush can also irritate the mouth and lead to sores. While there’s no quick fix for these types of injuries, the good news is they usually heal on their own. To ease the pain, you can rinse your mouth with warm water mixed with salt or baking soda, apply ice to the sore, or use an over-the-counter oral anesthetic.

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Hormonal Changes

Hormonal fluctuations, such as those during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause, can trigger mouth ulcers. These types of ulcers are difficult to prevent, as hormonal shifts are a natural part of life. However, you can still take steps to manage the pain, such as using saltwater rinses or applying milk of magnesia directly to the ulcer. Keeping up with your regular oral care routine can also help minimize discomfort during these times.

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Food Sensitivities

Certain foods can cause mouth ulcers in people who have sensitivities to them. Citrus fruits like lemons, oranges, or grapefruits, as well as acidic foods like tomatoes, strawberries, and pineapples, are common triggers. Even chocolate or coffee can sometimes lead to ulcers. If you suspect that specific foods are causing your mouth ulcers, it’s best to avoid them. By identifying and eliminating these triggers from your diet, you can reduce the chances of developing future ulcers.

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Nutrient Deficiencies

Deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin B12, folate, zinc, and iron, can also contribute to the development of mouth ulcers. If you find that you’re getting ulcers frequently, it might be a good idea to see your doctor and check for any underlying deficiencies. A simple blood test can help determine if you’re lacking in any key nutrients. If a deficiency is identified, your doctor may recommend taking supplements to restore your body’s balance and reduce the frequency of ulcers.

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Gastrointestinal Problems

Inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis can cause ulcers in the mouth during flare-ups. These conditions affect the immune system, making it easier for ulcers to develop. Additionally, patients with gastrointestinal issues often have deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals due to poor nutrient absorption, which can also lead to mouth ulcers. Dehydration, another symptom of these diseases, can further increase the risk of developing sores. If you suffer from a gastrointestinal condition and frequently get mouth ulcers, managing your overall health is key to reducing their occurrence.

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Infections: Bacterial, Viral, or Fungal

Although it’s rare, infections can sometimes be the cause of mouth ulcers. For instance, the herpes simplex virus can lead to painful sores in the mouth. While most ulcers are not caused by infections, it’s important to be aware that it can happen. If you suspect that an infection is behind your ulcers, seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment.

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Quitting Smoking

Interestingly, many people who quit smoking develop mouth ulcers within a couple of weeks of quitting. It’s estimated that about one-third of people who quit smoking experience this issue. This happens because smoking has antibacterial properties, which means your body may have relied on the chemicals in cigarettes to handle bacteria in your mouth. When you quit, your body needs time to "remember" how to produce its own antibodies to protect the mouth. Fortunately, these symptoms are usually temporary and should resolve within a few weeks. If you’re experiencing ulcers after quitting smoking, hang in there—it’s a small price to pay for the long-term benefits of quitting. However, if an ulcer lasts more than three weeks or you develop additional symptoms like a fever, it’s a good idea to consult your doctor.

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