Types of Treatment for Mouth Ulcers

Mouth Ulcer treatment depends on the cause of the ulcers. Sometimes all that is needed is for a sharp tooth to be smoothed down or a denture adjusted, although some patients may need mouthwashes or tablets.

What should I do if I think I have mouth ulcers?

If an ulcer lasts more than 3 weeks you should always ask your dental team or doctor for advice. They may be able to tell you the cause and provide treatment, or they may arrange more tests or refer you to a specialist if needed.

How can I prevent mouth ulcers?

You may be able to reduce the risk of mouth ulcers by:

• Keeping your mouth as clean and healthy as possible.
• Using high-quality toothbrushes (to reduce the risk of damage to your mouth).
• Eating a good diet that is rich in vitamins A, C and E, and includes foods such as fresh fruit and vegetables (to lessen the risk of mouth cancer).
• Regularly visiting your dentist.

Can cancer cause mouth ulcers?

Cancer of the mouth can first appear as a mouth ulcer. The ulcers caused by mouth cancer are usually single and last a long time without any obvious nearby cause (for example a sharp tooth). Any ulcer that lasts longer than three weeks should be looked at by your dentist. Ulcers caused by cancer usually appear on or under the tongue, but may occasionally appear somewhere else in the mouth. Cancer of the mouth is usually linked to heavy smoking and drinking. Doing both together greatly increases the risk.

Can I catch a mouth ulcer?

Mouth ulcers cannot be caught by kissing, or by sharing drinks and utensils.

Should I worry about my ulcers?

Most ulcers heal on their own. However, if they don’t heal within three weeks you should visit your dentist. Your dental team will be able to examine your mouth to check that the problem is an ulcer and not something more serious such as mouth cancer. If you suffer from ulcers that come and go often, you should visit your dental team to check that there is not an underlying medical cause.

Always see your dental team or doctor if:

• The ulcer lasts for more than 3 weeks.
• You are unwell.
• The ulcers keep coming back.