
Mouth ulcers are a common but extremely troublesome condition these days. They are small, sore-like formations that appear on the inside of the lips, tongue, palate, gums, or inside of the cheeks. They can make it difficult to eat, drink, and even speak.
Although this condition often resolves on its own within a few days, recurring or prolonged ulcers may indicate a deeper underlying condition. In this blog, we will explore in detail:
What are mouth ulcers?
Why do ulcers occur?
Symptoms
Home Remedies
Ayurvedic and Natural Remedies
Allopathic Treatments
Prevention Methods
When to Consult a Doctor
➡What are Mouth Ulcers?
Mouth ulcers are small, painful, white or yellow sores with a red border around them.
They can be of three types:
✅ Simple ulcers
Small in size (up to 5-10 mm)
Heal on their own within 7-10 days
Most common type
✅ Large ulcers
Deep and large
It may take 2-6 weeks to heal
May leave scars
✅ Herpetiform ulcers
These occur in small clusters in the mouth
Can be large (up to 10-100)
They resemble herpes, but are not caused by the herpes virus
➡Causes of mouth ulcers
There can be many causes for ulcers. The main causes are as follows:
✅Nutritional deficiencies
Iron, folic acid, zinc, and vitamin B12 deficiencies
Vitamin C deficiency weakens the gums and oral surface
✅Digestive system disorders
Constipation, gas, and acidity
Poor digestion increases body heat, leading to ulcers.
✅Stress and fatigue
Mental stress and lack of sleep weaken the body’s immune system.
✅Hormonal changes
Ultrasound is common in women during menstruation or pregnancy.
✅Injury or injury
Spicy food, accidentally biting the tongue or cheek
Friction from the brush or the tip of the teeth
✅Allergies or infections
Certain foods (such as citrus fruits, chocolate, coffee, nuts)
Bacterial or viral infections
✅Excessively spicy and oily foods
Increased stomach heat can cause ulcers.
✅Smoking and alcohol Consumption of
weakens the surface of the mouth
➡Symptoms of Mouth Ulcers
Burning and pain in the mouth
Small, round or oval, white/yellow spots
Sores with red edges
Pain when eating or speaking
Frequent thirst
Bad breath
Fever or swelling (in severe cases)
➡Home Remedies for Mouth Ulcers
Minor mouth ulcers can often be cured with home remedies. Here are some effective remedies:
✅ Honey
Honey has antibacterial and healing properties.
Apply honey to the ulcer 3-4 times a day.
✅ Coconut Oil
It provides cooling and moisturizing effects.
Apply to the affected area 2-3 times a day.
✅ Licorice Root
Soak it in water, make a paste, and apply it to the ulcer.
Reduces swelling and pain.
✅ Turmeric and Honey
Turmeric has antiseptic properties.
Mix turmeric powder and honey, and apply it to the blister.
✅ Fenugreek Leaves
Boil fenugreek leaves in water and gargle with it.
✅ Triphala Powder
Soak them in water overnight and rinse them with it in the morning.
✅ Yogurt
Eating yogurt reduces heat in the mouth and helps blisters heal faster.
✅ Ice Cube
Placing ice on the blister reduces irritation and swelling.
➡Ayurvedic and Natural Remedies
Giloy juice and Amla juice:– Boost the body’s immunity.
Tulsi leaves:– Chewing 5-7 leaves a day is beneficial.
Flaxseed oil:– Maintains oral moisture.
Neem leaves: Antibacterial properties help heal ulcers faster.
➡Allopathic Treatment
If mouth ulcers are severe or recurring, you should consult a doctor. Some common medications:
Antacids and vitamin supplements
Antiseptic mouthwash
Topical gels (such as Dentaforce, Camphor Gel)
Anesthetic gels to reduce pain
➡Preventative measures
Eat a balanced diet, especially green vegetables and fruits
Eat foods rich in vitamin B12, iron, and zinc
Avoid spicy, oily, and sour foods
Drink enough water
Reduce stress and get enough sleep
Stay away from smoking and alcohol
Brush regularly and practice good oral hygiene
➡When to consult a doctor?
The ulcers don’t heal within 2-3 weeks.
There’s a lot of pain or fever.
The ulcers keep coming back.
Eating and drinking become difficult.
➡Conclusion
Mouth ulcers are a common problem these days, but they can be quite troublesome. In most cases, they clear up on their own within a few days. However, recurring ulcers can be a sign of nutritional deficiencies, stress, or digestive problems. They can be easily managed with proper diet, stress management, and home remedies.