Question from Our Readers: Mouth Ulcer

Reader Question: I have a mouth ulcer that’s not healing. What could this be, and how do I treat it?

A persistent mouth ulcer can be frustrating and uncomfortable, especially when it disrupts your daily life and makes enjoying your favorite food difficult. Mouth ulcers often heal on their own. Still, your concern about it not healing after several weeks is completely valid.

To help you out, let’s explore some possible reasons behind persistent mouth ulcers. I’ll also walk you through various ways to address them.

What Are the Potential Causes?

The causes of non-healing mouth ulcers can vary from simple, easily treated issues to more serious underlying conditions. Common causes include:

• Minor injuries ⁠— Mouth ulcers can be caused by accidentally biting your cheek or irritation from dental work or brushing and flossing. Repeated or ongoing trauma might prevent an ulcer from healing.
• Nutritional deficiencies — Lack of iron, zinc, folate, or vitamin B12 can hinder the healing process.
• Sensitivities and allergies — Certain ingredients in toothpaste or mouthwash, food sensitivities, or allergies could trigger ulcers and keep them from healing. 
• Autoimmune diseases — Conditions like Crohn’s disease, lupus, or Behçet’s disease can manifest as persistent mouth ulcers.
• Other conditions —Systemic infections, cancer, medications, or stress could be contributing factors.

Natural Home Remedies and Holistic Support

A saltwater rinse is a classic remedy for soothing pain and inflammation. The salt helps draw fluid from the ulcer, reducing inflammation and pain.

Here’s what you should do:

1. Mix ½ teaspoon of table salt in a cup of warm water.
2. Swish thoroughly for 15 to 30 seconds, spitting afterwards.
3. Repeat this a few times a day.

Another home remedy is honey. Apply a small dab of raw, unpasteurized honey directly to the ulcer. Its antibacterial properties may soothe the discomfort and promote healing. However, avoid this for children under 1 year old to prevent the risk of infant botulism.

Other remedies include:

• Aloe vera ⁠— This plant has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. Apply a small amount of aloe vera gel to the ulcer several times daily. You can also apply the gel directly from a leaf of the aloe vera plant.
• Chamomile compress — Chamomile is known for its calming effects. Steep a chamomile tea bag in hot water for a few minutes. Let it cool slightly, then hold the moistened tea bag against the ulcer for a few minutes at a time.
• Hydration — Staying well-hydrated is crucial for overall health and can also aid in healing mouth ulcers. Drink plenty of water throughout the day.

If these remedies don’t provide relief within a reasonable timeframe, or if your ulcer worsens, it’s important to see a doctor or dentist to rule out any underlying conditions.

When to Seek Medical Help

If your mouth ulcer doesn’t improve after two weeks, you develop additional symptoms, or it worsens, it’s best to see a doctor or dentist as soon as possible. 

If you have a history of frequent or recurring mouth ulcers, consulting a healthcare professional can help identify any underlying causes.

I recommend seeking medical attention if:

• Your ulcer persists for more than two weeks without any signs of healing
• You develop new symptoms like fever, rash, or swollen lymph nodes
• The ulcer is exceptionally large, painful, or spreading
• You have a history of frequent or recurrent mouth ulcers

Finding the Right Resources

Reliable online resources could help you understand and manage the issue of mouth ulcers:

• Mouth Ulcers: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment — A complete look at mouth ulcers
• Mouth Sores — Causes, symptoms, and treatment options for mouth sores
• Canker Sores vs Cancer — Distinguishing between canker sores and cancer
• Forums or Resources With Comment Section — Connect with others with similar experiences for support and advice. Consider reputable forums or websites with comment sections such as:
  • American Dental Association
  • National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research
  • Patient.info
  • PatientsLikeMe
  • Inspire

Don’t hesitate to seek professional guidance from a doctor or dentist to determine the root cause of your non-healing ulcer and get the right treatment plan. I hope this helps you!