Mouth Ulcers Caused by Stress: Understanding and Managing the Condition

What Are Mouth Ulcers Caused by Stress?

Mouth ulcers linked to stress, anxiety, and depression are a common concern. Research shows that nearly 1 in a certain number of individuals experience anxiety due to the condition of their mouth and teeth. Stress, along with other factors like distress, anxiety, depression, and loneliness, can contribute to the development of mouth ulcers. International studies have investigated this connection between mental health and oral health.

Symptoms and Characteristics of Stress-Induced Mouth Ulcers

Mouth ulcers caused by stress are often small sores that can form on various parts of the mouth, such as the gums, lips, tongue, inner cheeks, or roof of the mouth. They typically have a white or yellow center surrounded by redness. The ulcers can cause pain, especially when eating spicy, salty, or sour foods. Swelling around the ulcers and increased soreness when brushing the teeth may also occur.

Causes and Triggers of Stress-Related Mouth Ulcers

Stress is one of the significant factors that can lead to mouth ulcers. Other causes include minor tissue injury from dental work, accidental biting of the cheek or tongue, allergic reactions to certain bacteria, wearing braces or retainers, using harsh toothpaste, consuming a lot of acidic foods, hormonal changes during the menstrual period, lack of sleep, and certain underlying health conditions such as vitamin deficiencies, viral, bacterial, or fungal infections, Crohn's disease, celiac disease, reactive arthritis, lupus, and Behçet's disease.

Diagnosis and Tests for Mouth Ulcers Caused by Stress

A healthcare provider can diagnose mouth ulcers through a visual examination. In cases of severe outbreaks or suspected underlying health conditions, blood tests may be ordered to determine the exact cause.

Treatment Options for Stress-Induced Mouth Ulcers

While most mouth ulcers heal on their own, healthcare providers may prescribe medications to alleviate discomfort. Common treatments include antiseptic gels or mouth rinses, steroid ointments, and immunosuppressants in severe cases. At home, one can relieve symptoms by drinking plenty of water, maintaining good oral hygiene, rinsing the mouth with warm saltwater, avoiding hot and spicy foods until the ulcer heals, and using over-the-counter topical anesthetics.

Prevention Measures for Stress-Related Mouth Ulcers

Although it's impossible to completely prevent mouth ulcers, there are steps one can take to reduce the risk. Brushing teeth twice daily and flossing once daily, using a soft-bristled toothbrush, eating a healthy diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables, and visiting the dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings are essential. Treating underlying conditions that cause sores can also lower the risk of ulcers recurring.

Outlook and Prognosis of Mouth Ulcers Due to Stress

In most cases, mouth ulcers caused by stress go away on their own within 10 to 14 days. However, if a mouth sore persists for more than three weeks, it is advisable to schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider. They can recommend appropriate treatment and guide on how to eliminate the ulcer.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Stress-Induced Mouth Ulcers

Anyone can develop mouth ulcers. However, it is crucial to contact a healthcare provider if mouth sores last for three weeks or longer, new sores appear before the old ones heal, ulcers affect the outer part of the lips, pain does not improve with medication, unusually large mouth ulcers are present, mouth sores are painless, or there is a fever or diarrhea. If one gets severe or frequent mouth ulcers, it is beneficial to ask the provider questions such as the reason for recurring ulcers, whether an underlying condition is causing them, ways to reduce the risk, recommended mouth ulcer medicine, and necessary changes in diet or lifestyle.