Health Encyclopedia

Mouth ulcers

Definition

Mouth ulcers are sores or open lesions in the mouth. (See also mouth sores or canker sores)

Alternative Names

Oral ulcer; Stomatitis - ulcerative; Ulcer - mouth

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Mouth ulcers are caused by many disorders. These include:

Canker sores
Gingivostomatitis
Herpes simplex
Leukoplakia
Oral cancer
Oral lichen planus
Oral thrush

The skin lesion of histoplasmosis may also appear as a mouth ulcer.

Canker sores are more common in young adults than in children or older adults.

Symptoms

Open sores in the mouth
Pain or discomfort in the mouth

The appearance and exact location of lesions varies with the specific disorder.

Signs and tests

A health care provider or dentist usually diagnoses the type of mouth ulcer, based on its appearance and location. Blood tests or a biopsy of the ulcer may be needed to confirm the cause.

Treatment

The goal of treatment is to relieve symptoms. The cause, if known, should be treated.

Gentle, thorough oral hygiene may relieve some of the symptoms. Topical (rubbed on) antihistamines, antacids, corticosteroids, or other soothing preparations may be recommended for applying directly to the ulcer.

Avoid hot or spicy foods, which often increase the pain of mouth ulcers.

Expectations (prognosis)

The outcome varies depending on the cause of the ulcer. Many mouth ulcers are harmless ( benign)and heal without treatment. Sometimes, mouth cancer first appears as an ulcer that won't heal.

Complications

Cellulitis of the mouth, from secondary bacterial infection of ulcers
Dental infections (tooth abscesses)
Oral cancer
Spread of contagious disorders to other people

Calling your health care provider

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if your mouth ulcers don't go away after 3 weeks. Call for an appointment with your health care provider if mouth ulcers return frequently, or if new symptoms develop.

Prevention

Good oral hygiene may help prevent some types of mouth ulcers, as well as some complications from mouth ulcers. Good oral hygiene includes brushing the teeth at least twice per day, flossing at least daily, and getting regular professional dental cleanings and examinations.

References

Gonsalves WC, Chi AC, Neville BW. Common oral lesions: Part I. Superficial mucosal lesions. Am Fam Physician. 2007;75(4):501-507.

Gonsalves WC, Chi AC, Neville BW. Common oral lesions: Part II. Masses and neoplasia. Am Fam Physician. 2007;75(4):509-512.

Gonsalves WC, Wrightson AS, Henry RG. Common oral conditions in older persons. Am Fam Physician. 2008;78(7):845-852.

Review Date:2/1/2009
Reviewed By:Linda Vorvick, MD, Family Physician, Seattle Site Coordinator, Lecturer, Pathophysiology, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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