Mouth Ulcers Treatment in Delhi, India

Mouth ulcers are painful sores on the mouth's mucosal surface. They may occur due to dehydration, injury, allergic reaction, or upset stomach. It is a common ailment that has affected almost everyone at some point.

Mouth ulcers heal within a week of occurrence. Ulcers that last more than two weeks require immediate attention and can be serious. They are usually not contagious.

Mouth ulcers, also known as canker sores or aphthous ulcers, can vary in type and severity. Here are some common types:

• Minor aphthous ulcers: These are the most common type of mouth ulcer. They are usually small, round, or oval-shaped, and shallow. They typically heal within one to two weeks without scarring.
• Major aphthous ulcers are larger and deeper than minor aphthous ulcers. They can be more painful and may take several weeks to heal. They tend to scar.
• Herpetiform ulcers: Despite their name, herpetiform ulcers are not caused by the herpes virus. They are characterised by clusters of multiple small ulcers that merge, resembling herpes sores. They are often very painful and can take several weeks to heal.
• Traumatic ulcers: These ulcers are caused by physical trauma to the mouth, such as biting the inside of the cheek, sharp edges of a broken tooth, or irritation from dental appliances like braces. They are typically shallow and heal relatively quickly once the source of irritation is removed.
• Recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS) is a chronic condition characterised by recurrent episodes of mouth ulcers. RAS can be minor, major, or herpetiform, and the exact cause is not always known. However, stress, hormonal changes, dietary factors, and certain medical conditions may play a role.
• Drug-induced ulcers: Certain medications, particularly those that irritate the mucous membranes of the mouth, can cause mouth ulcers as a side effect. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), beta-blockers, and some chemotherapy drugs are examples of medications that may cause oral ulcers.

Ulcers may appear due to the following reasons:

• Dehydration — Not drinking plenty of water may lead to painful ulcers in the mouth, especially on the tongue. They resolve when adequate fluids are taken orally.
• Injury — If one accidentally bites their cheeks when chewing food, it may cause an ulcer. This ulcer may be painful and usually disappears within a day or two.

Injury when brushing teeth, the constant rubbing against misaligned or sharp/broken teeth may cause ulcers.

• Gingivostomatitis — It is a common infection affecting children. It produces tender blisters on the gums or cheeks and has a greyish-yellow border and a red, inflamed centre. It may cause fever, drooling, and pain with eating.
• Folate deficiency — Vitamin B deficiency is the common cause of mouth ulcers. Vitamin B deficiency may occur when an individual suffers from anaemia or low blood cells. It may accompany symptoms such as weakness, ulcers, grey hair, paleness of the skin, and fatigue.

Apart from these, ulcers are also caused by burns from eating hot food, injury from a toothbrush (brushing too hard and injuring gums, constant rubbing of dentures or braces against oral mucosa, irritation from strong mouthwash, infectious diseases, and oral cancer.

One has an increased risk of getting mouth ulcers in case of:

• Vitamin deficiency
• Stress
• Viral infection
• Imbalanced hormones
• Allergic to certain medications or food
• Genetic predisposition to ulcers

 The signs and symptoms commonly associated with mouth ulcers include:

• Pain or discomfort: Mouth ulcers are often painful, especially when eating, drinking, or brushing teeth. The pain can range from mild to severe, depending on the size and location of the ulcer.
• Lesions: Mouth ulcers typically appear as round or oval-shaped sores with a white or yellowish centre and a red border. They may vary from a few millimetres to several centimetres in diameter.
• Swelling: The area around the ulcer may appear swollen or inflamed.
• Difficulty eating and speaking: Severe ulcers or clusters of ulcers can make it difficult to chew, swallow, or speak comfortably.
• Tenderness: The area surrounding the ulcer may feel tender to the touch.
• Burning or tingling sensation: Some people may experience a burning sensation in the mouth before the ulcer appears.
• Increased salivation: Excessive saliva production may occur due to irritation caused by the ulcer.
• Recurrent episodes: For individuals with recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS), multiple mouth ulcers may occur over time.

Mouth ulcers typically resemble vesicles or bullae that rupture easily. A visual exam is enough for the doctor to diagnose mouth ulcers. Prolonged, frequent ulcers require medical testing for other medical conditions.

Treatment of ulcers largely depends on the cause. Most ulcers do not require any treatment and resolve on their own. However, if they occur too frequently and affect day-to-day life, the following line of treatment can be followed:

• Application of topical gels containing an anaesthetic component about 3–4 times a day.
• Drinking plenty of fluids to eradicate dehydration.
• Rinse mouth with saltwater and baking soda or apply its paste to the ulcer
• Application of ice for canker sores
• Placing milk of magnesia on the ulcer
• Using a steroid mouthwash to control pain and swelling
• Take supplements such as Vitamin B12, B6, folic acid, and Zinc.
• Keeping damp tea bags on the ulcer

The following can prevent ulceration in the mouth:

• Drinking adequate fluids and avoid the situation of dehydration
• Brushing teeth gently
• Adopting methods such as exercise to reduce stress
• Eating a well-balanced, nutritious diet
• Regular health check-ups for timely diagnosis of underlying medical condition

If the ulcers do not resolve within two weeks, it is imperative to consult the physician to rule out any underlying conditions. If the pain is unbearable, scheduling an appointment with the doctor to seek relief might be helpful.

Mouth ulcers are simple to treat and heal within a week or two. However, a non-healing ulcer can be a warning sign of cancer or any other underlying ailment. This would require immediate medical attention.

Max Hospitals is renowned for its exceptional care in treating mouth ulcers, making it the preferred choice for individuals seeking solutions. Here's why Max Hospitals stands out:

World-Class Medical Expertise 

At Max Hospitals, a dedicated team of highly experienced specialists specialising in mouth ulcer treatment ensures patients receive unmatched care. With a track record of successful procedures, their expertise brings assurance and the best chances of recovery.

Comprehensive Patient Care 

Recognizing that dealing with mouth ulcers is not just a medical journey but an emotional one, Max Hospitals offers comprehensive care. From initial consultations to tailored well-being programs focused on ulcer management and ongoing support post-treatment, patients and their families are embraced with compassion and support.

Reputation and Trust

Max Hospitals has built a legacy in mouth ulcer specialist, earning trust as a leader in mouth ulcer treatments. Consistent results and a patient-centric approach have solidified our reputation among individuals seeking relief from mouth ulcers and referring physicians.

Accessibility

Max Hospitals are strategically located, ensuring easy access to top-tier mouth ulcer care. With branches in key cities across India, we provide a beacon of hope for countless individuals seeking relief from the discomfort of mouth ulcers.

Are mouth ulcers contagious? 

No, mouth ulcers are not contagious. Injury, stress, hormonal changes, or underlying health conditions typically cause them.

How can mouth ulcers be cured quickly and naturally? 

Mouth ulcers can often be relieved using natural remedies such as rinsing with salt water, applying honey or coconut oil, or over-the-counter topical treatments containing ingredients like benzocaine or hydrogen peroxide.

Is it possible to prevent mouth ulcers? 

While preventing mouth ulcers may not always be possible, you can reduce their occurrence by practising good oral hygiene, avoiding triggers such as spicy or acidic foods, managing stress, and addressing any underlying health issues.

How long do mouth ulcers typically last? 

The duration of mouth ulcers can vary depending on size, severity, and underlying causes. Generally, minor ulcers heal within one to two weeks, while larger or more severe ones may take longer.

What is the difference between a mouth ulcer and a canker sore? 

There is no difference between a mouth ulcer and a canker sore; they are terms used interchangeably to describe the same condition of ulceration in the mouth.

How can you tell if a mouth ulcer is severe? 

Signs of a severe mouth ulcer may include excessive pain, large size, prolonged healing time, recurrent episodes, or accompanying symptoms such as fever or swollen lymph nodes. If you experience any of these, it's advisable to consult a mouth ulcer specialist.

Are mouth ulcers indicative of cancer? 

In most cases, mouth ulcers are not indicative of cancer. However, a mouth ulcer doctor in Delhi or elsewhere should evaluate persistent or unusual ulcers that do not heal within a few weeks, along with other concerning symptoms, to rule out any serious underlying conditions.

Which vitamin deficiency is associated with mouth ulcers? 

Vitamin deficiencies, particularly vitamin B12, folate, and iron, have been linked to an increased risk of mouth ulcers. Ensuring an adequate intake of these vitamins through diet or supplements may help prevent ulcers in some cases.

Can mouth ulcers be cancerous? 

While most mouth ulcers are benign and not cancerous, persistent or unusual ulcers that do not heal within a few weeks should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to rule out any potential malignancy.

What is the best medication for treating mouth ulcers? 

Over-the-counter medications such as topical anaesthetics (e.g., benzocaine) or corticosteroid creams/gels can help relieve pain and promote healing. In severe cases, prescription medications may be necessary to manage underlying conditions or reduce inflammation.

What beverages can help alleviate mouth ulcers?

Chamomile tea, aloe vera juice, or diluted hydrogen peroxide solution may help soothe mouth ulcers. Avoiding acidic or spicy drinks is advisable as they irritate the ulcers further. Staying hydrated with water is also important for oral health and ulcer healing.

Reviewed By Dr Anusuya Sharma, Head of the Department Dental Care On 18 July 2024.

1. Oral Hygiene Tips for a Healthy Mouth