How Long Do Mouth Ulcers Last and How to Speed Up Healing

What Are Mouth Ulcers?

Mouth ulcers are the loss or erosion of the delicate lining tissue of the mouth. The most common cause is injury, such as accidentally biting the inside of your cheek. Aphthous ulcers are recurring ulcers with no known cause that affect about 20 per cent of the population. Mouth ulcers can be alarming, but they're usually harmless and go away on their own in a week or two. However, some types of mouth sores could indicate underlying health conditions.

Causes of Mouth Ulcers

Mouth ulcers can result from various factors. Minor tissue injury from dental work, accidentally biting the cheek or tongue, allergic reactions, wearing braces or retainers, using harsh toothpaste, eating acidic foods, hormonal changes, stress, lack of sleep, vitamin deficiencies, viral, bacterial or fungal infections, underlying autoimmune diseases like Crohn's disease, and certain gastrointestinal issues can all contribute to the development of mouth ulcers.

Symptoms of Mouth Ulcers

Mouth ulcers are typically red around the edges and white, yellow or gray in the center. You may have just one or multiple ulcers. Other symptoms can include swelling around the ulcers, increased soreness when brushing teeth, and pain that worsens when consuming spicy, salty or sour foods.

When to Seek Treatment for Mouth Ulcers

If mouth ulcers don't clear up after 14 days, or if you get them frequently, it's advisable to see your dentist or doctor. Seek treatment if there is bleeding, suspected underlying deficiencies like iron, folate or vitamin B deficiency, or if a biopsy is necessary for diagnosis.

Treatment for Mouth Ulcers

Most mouth ulcers heal on their own, but medications may be prescribed to alleviate discomfort. Common treatments include antiseptic gels or mouth rinses, steroid ointments, and immunosuppressants in severe cases. At home, you can relieve symptoms by drinking plenty of water, maintaining good oral hygiene, rinsing with warm saltwater, using a hydrogen peroxide and water mixture, avoiding hot and spicy foods, and applying over-the-counter topical anesthetics.

Prevention of Mouth Ulcers

While it's impossible to prevent mouth ulcers completely, you can reduce the risk by brushing and flossing regularly, using a soft-bristled toothbrush, eating a healthy diet, and visiting the dentist for regular checkups. Treating underlying conditions can also prevent ulcers from recurring.

Outlook and Prognosis of Mouth Ulcers

In most cases, mouth ulcers go away on their own in about 10 to 14 days. If a mouth sore lasts longer than three weeks, it's essential to schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider. They can recommend appropriate treatment and help get rid of the ulcer.