What is mouth ulcer?

A group of disorders that cause sores or lesions within the mouth. Often they are simply caused by trauma and heal within few days on their own.

Symptoms

• Pain discomfort in the mouth

• Presence of open sores in the mouth

• Redness in the mouth

• Burning sensation/irritation during food intake

• Bleeding gums

What is the dentist’ role?

Often mouth ulcers heal on their own. In case of recurrent bothersome form one should need to visit the dentist immediately. Dentist will prescribe a mouth ulcer gel along with vitamin supplementation & probably a mouthwash. Topical steroids treatment can be quite useful in reducing the pain & duration of lesions. Finally he will recommend maintaining good oral hygiene.

How to prevent the mouth ulcer?

• Avoid junk food which results in vitamin or mineral deficiencies.

• Drink plenty of water.

• Always keep the mouth moist by drinking lost of water. Saliva protects both hard and soft oral tissues. In case of dry mouth, supplement the diet with sugarless candy or gum to stimulate saliva.

• Foods that cling to the teeth promote tooth decay. Avoid soft, sweet, sticky foods such as cakes, candy and dried fruits.

• Choose dentally healthy foods such as nuts, raw vegetables, plain yogurt and sugarless chewing gum.

• Brush (soft) the teeth regularly with less abrasive toothpaste. Clean and replace the toothbrush regularly. Floss the teeth regularly.

• Use antiseptic mouthwash everyday in morning and evening.

• Avoid Tobacco, Pan Masala & Gutkha.

Article Submitted by- Dr. Ankur Chaudhary, BDS
E-mail: bharat_chk2@rediffmail.com