29/12/2025
🦷 Aphthous Stomatitis (Mouth Ulcers)
🦷 What is Aphthous Stomatitis?
→ Aphthous stomatitis is a common condition that causes small, painful ulcers inside the mouth
→ These ulcers are also called aphthous ulcers or canker sores
→ They are not contagious and usually heal on their own
🦷 Where do these ulcers appear?
→ Inside of the lips
→ Inside of the cheeks
→ Tongue
→ Floor of the mouth
→ Soft palate (back part of the mouth)
→ They do not occur on the outer lips or skin
🦷 How does an aphthous ulcer look?
→ Small round or oval sore
→ White or yellow center
→ Red, inflamed border
→ Causes burning or pain, especially while eating or speaking
🦷 Types of Aphthous Ulcers
→ Minor aphthous ulcers
→ Most common type
→ Size less than 1 cm
→ Heal within 7–10 days
→ Do not leave scars
→ Major aphthous ulcers
→ Larger and deeper ulcers
→ Very painful
→ Take weeks to heal
→ May leave scars
→ Herpetiform ulcers
→ Multiple tiny ulcers occurring together
→ Can merge to form larger sores
→ Not related to herpes virus despite the name
🦷 Why do aphthous ulcers occur? (Causes & Triggers)
→ Exact cause is not fully known
→ Stress and anxiety
→ Mouth injury (biting cheek, sharp tooth, dental procedures)
→ Nutritional deficiencies (iron, vitamin B12, folic acid)
→ Hormonal changes
→ Weak immunity
→ Certain foods (spicy, acidic, salty foods)
→ Underlying conditions (anemia, celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease)
🦷 Common Symptoms
→ Pain or burning sensation in the mouth
→ Difficulty eating, drinking, or speaking
→ Increased pain with spicy or acidic foods
→ No fever or systemic illness in most cases
🦷 How is Aphthous Stomatitis diagnosed?
→ Diagnosis is mainly clinical, based on appearance
→ Blood tests may be advised if ulcers are frequent or severe
→ Tests help rule out anemia, vitamin deficiencies, or systemic diseases
🦷 Management and Treatment
→ Pain Relief & Healing Support
→ Topical anesthetic gels (lidocaine, benzocaine)
→ Protective oral gels or pastes
→ Mouth rinses with saline or antiseptic solutions
→ Anti-inflammatory Treatment
→ Topical corticosteroid gels or mouth rinses
→ Helps reduce pain, swelling, and healing time
→ Nutritional Correction
→ Iron, vitamin B12, or folic acid supplements if deficient
→ Balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and proteins
→ For Severe or Recurrent Ulcers
→ Short course of systemic medicines if prescribed by a doctor
→ Evaluation for underlying medical conditions
🦷 Home Care & Lifestyle Tips
→ Avoid spicy, acidic, and very hot foods
→ Use a soft-bristled toothbrush
→ Maintain good oral hygiene
→ Avoid toothpaste with sodium lauryl sulfate if ulcers recur
→ Manage stress and get adequate sleep
🦷 When should you see a doctor?
→ Ulcers lasting more than 2 weeks
→ Very large or extremely painful ulcers
→ Frequent recurrence
→ Difficulty eating or drinking
→ Ulcers associated with fever, weight loss, or weakness
🦷 Important Points to Remember
→ Aphthous ulcers are benign and non-infectious
→ Most cases heal without complications
→ Proper care can significantly reduce pain. .
