Mouth ulcers

Alternative names:

oral ulcer; stomatitis, ulcerative; ulcer - mouth; ulcer - oral

Treatment:

The goal of treatment is relief of symptoms. The cause, if known, should be treated. Gentle, thorough oral hygiene may relieve some of the symptoms. Topical antihistamines, antacids, corticosteroids, or other soothing preparations may be recommended to apply to the mouth ulcer. Avoid hot or spicy foods, which often increase the pain of mouth ulcers.

Expectations (prognosis):

The outcome varies with the causative disorder. Many mouth ulcers are benign and resolve without specific treatment. Rarely, chronic mouth ulcers can develop into oral cancer.

Complications:

• cellulitis of the mouth from secondary bacterial infection of ulcers
• dental infections (tooth abscess)
• spread of contagious disorders
• oral cancer

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms are suggestive of mouth ulcers and persist for longer than 3 weeks. Call for an appointment with your health care provider if mouth ulcers recur frequently, or if new symptoms develop.