The skin inside the mouth is oral mucous membrane. Mouth ulcers are open sores that are usually painful on the mucous membrane. There are different types that have different causes. The type is determined by the patient's history and the appearance and location. Apthous ulcers, herpes and canker sores are the most common. Ulcers in the mouth can be from poorly fitting dentures that rub the underlying mucous membranes raw. Lip biting or chewing trauma can trigger this problem although most patients are aware of this.

          Poor circulation, as with diabetes, fungal (Candida) or bacterial infections can cause mouth ulcers. In patients who have food allergies, many foods such as acidic foods (tomatoes) can cause ulcers in the mouth. Certain toothpastes trigger oral ulcers in patients sensitive to their ingredients. In most cases, a patient has been experiencing stress which has run down the immune system. Patients who are stressed often have a poor diet and do not sleep well. Vitamin deficiencies, especially Vitamin C can contribute. The extended use of antibiotics can cause an imbalance in the normal microbial balance.

          Most mouth ulcers heal in two weeks. Many over the counter medications that contain benzocaine or lidocaine can help decrease pain when applied directly onto a sore. Topical corticosteroid anti-inflammatories can be helpful. Along with eating 3 nutritious meals a day, take 4 grams of Vitamin C and a B100 complex. Rest and handle the things stressing you. Stay away from hot foods and drinks and from spicy and acidic foods that irritate healing. If allergies are suspected as the cause, keep a good diet diary. If a specific food is the cause, sores appear after eating it. Fasting for a few days before trying a suspect food can be useful. Once confirmed, this food must either be eliminated from your diet or only eaten occasionally in limited amounts.

          In some cases, mouth ulcers are serious and caused by oral cancer but this is rare. If you're concerned and if the problem doesn't go away, see a dentist. A biopsy can help rule out oral cancer. Other causes include tooth infections and oral lichen planus. Histoplasmosis rarely presents but can be the cause. If you would like to consult with Dr. Padolsky, make an appointment at 404-874-7428.