Mouth Ulcers

What are mouth ulcers?

Mouth ulcers, also called oral sores, are small but painful wounds that appear inside the mouth, on the tongue, lips, or gums. They can make simple activities like eating, drinking, and talking very uncomfortable. Many Africans experience mouth ulcers at some point, but few people understand why they occur or how to manage them properly.

How common are mouth ulcers in Africa?

Mouth ulcers are very common, but their exact numbers are hard to determine because many people do not seek medical help. Studies suggest that about 1 in 5 people will experience a mouth ulcer at some point in their life. Factors like stress, poor diet, infections, and poor oral hygiene contribute to their occurrence in African communities.

Common misconceptions about mouth ulcers?

Many people confuse mouth ulcers with cold sores, but they are different:

  • Mouth ulcers appear inside the mouth (on the gums, tongue, or cheeks).
  • Cold sores mostly appear outside the mouth, usually on or around the lips, and are caused by a virus.
  • Mouth ulcers are not contagious, while cold sores can spread from person to person.
  • Cold sores often have fluid inside, while mouth ulcers are dry.

What causes mouth ulcers?

There is no single cause of mouth ulcers, but some common triggers include:

  • Minor injuries: Accidental bites, hard brushing, or dental work.
  • Stress and lack of sleep: Common among busy Africans, students, and workers.
  • Spicy or acidic foods: Including pepper, citrus fruits, and certain nuts.
  • Nutrient deficiencies: Especially iron, zinc, vitamin B12, and folate.
  • Certain oral products: Toothpaste and mouthwash containing sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) can trigger ulcers.
  • Braces or dental devices: Can rub against the inner mouth, causing sores.
  • Hormonal changes: Women may experience ulcers during menstruation or pregnancy.
  • Underlying medical conditions: Diseases like diabetes, HIV, and inflammatory bowel disease can contribute.

Symptoms of mouth ulcers?

Mouth ulcers usually appear as:

  • Painful sores that are white, yellow, or red.
  • Sores on the tongue, lips, or inside the cheeks.
  • Redness around the ulcer.
  • Pain that worsens when eating, drinking, or talking.

Types of mouth ulcers?

Mouth ulcers come in different types, with some lasting longer than others:

  • Minor ulcers: Small, round sores that heal in 1-2 weeks without scarring.
  • Major ulcers: Larger, deeper, and take weeks or months to heal. May leave scars.
  • Herpetiform ulcers: Tiny ulcers appearing in clusters, healing in about a month.

When to see a doctor?

Seek medical attention if you experience:

  • Large or unusually painful ulcers.
  • Recurring ulcers (new ones appearing before the old ones heal).
  • Sores lasting more than 3 weeks.
  • Difficulty eating or drinking due to pain.
  • High fever or diarrhoea alongside mouth ulcers.

How are mouth ulcers diagnosed?

Doctors or dentists diagnose mouth ulcers by examining the sores. If ulcers appear frequently or last too long, further tests may be done to check for nutrient deficiencies, infections, or chronic diseases.

Treatment for mouth ulcers?

Most mouth ulcers heal on their own within 1-2 weeks. However, treatments can help speed up healing and reduce pain:

  • Home remedies:
  • Rinse mouth with salt water or baking soda.
  • Apply a paste made from baking soda and water.
  • Use honey or coconut oil for soothing relief.
  • Place a tea bag on the ulcer (black tea contains healing properties).
  • Apply ice cubes to reduce swelling and pain.
  • Over-the-counter remedies:
  • Oral gels like bonjela and anbesol.
  • Steroid mouth rinses to reduce inflammation.
  • Pain relief tablets like paracetamol or ibuprofen.
  • Vitamin supplements if deficiencies are a cause.

How to prevent mouth ulcers?

Mouth ulcers can be prevented by following these simple steps:

  • Eat a balanced diet which include fruits, vegetables, and iron-rich foods.
  • Avoid spicy, acidic, or extremely hot foods.
  • Brush with a soft toothbrush and avoid toothpaste with SLS.
  • Drink plenty of water to keep your mouth hydrated.
  • Get enough sleep and manage stress.
  • Practice good oral hygiene. Brush and floss regularly.
  • Avoid biting your lips, cheeks, or tongue.