What is oral ulcer?

Written by Yao Jun
Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery
Updated on September 11, 2024
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Oral ulcers refer to the erosion and inflammation of the mucous membranes in the mouth, a common ulcerative condition occurring on the mucous membranes of the oral cavity. They commonly appear on the inner side of the lips, tongue, underside of the tongue, cheek mucous membranes, vestibular groove, soft palate, etc. They may be accompanied by symptoms like bad breath, chronic pharyngitis, constipation, headaches, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, irritability, fever, and swollen lymph nodes. There are two types of conditions: one is recurrent mouth sores, also known as aphthous stomatitis; characterized by repeated outbreaks but heals without scarring. The other type is called periadenitis, where there is a red halo around the eroded area that heals with scarring. Therefore, it is advisable to rinse with saltwater regularly, maintain oral hygiene, consume zinc-rich foods, regulate emotions, avoid staying up late, smoking, and drinking. This can promote the healing of oral ulcers. Additionally, under the guidance of a doctor or pharmacist, some heat-clearing and detoxifying traditional Chinese medicines can be taken.

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Written by Li Cui
Dentistry
55sec home-news-image

Can you drink milk with oral ulcers?

When experiencing oral ulcers, patients can appropriately drink milk. Oral ulcers are a type of oral inflammation, where localized areas in the mouth develop ulcerative lesions, often accompanied by significant pain, and the ulcerative surfaces may exhibit white substances. At this time, patients must pay attention to oral hygiene and nutrition, rinse their mouths promptly after meals to remove food residues and prevent bacterial infections that could irritate the wound. Additionally, patients can not only drink milk but also eat other nutritious foods such as eggs, lean meats, fresh vegetables, and fruits. These can effectively supplement various nutrients needed by the body, which are beneficial for the healing of oral ulcers. Therefore, when patients suffer from oral ulcers, they must ensure a light and balanced diet.

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Written by Li Cui
Dentistry
48sec home-news-image

Can oral ulcers be contagious?

Mouth ulcers are generally caused by localized mucosal erosion in the patient's mouth, often due to internal heat in the body or a deficiency of certain nutrients. They are not contagious and thus do not spread from one person to another. However, it is advised that patients pay close attention to oral hygiene, rinse their mouth promptly after meals, and brush their teeth regularly in the morning and evening using the correct brushing technique to maintain good oral care. When there is pain or noticeable erosion due to the mouth ulcer, patients can appropriately apply an oral ulcer spray. This can effectively help heal the ulcerated area and alleviate uncomfortable symptoms. Patients should also be sure to drink plenty of water.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Yao Jun
Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery
1min 19sec home-news-image

What is oral ulcer?

Oral ulcers refer to the erosion and inflammation of the mucous membranes in the mouth, a common ulcerative condition occurring on the mucous membranes of the oral cavity. They commonly appear on the inner side of the lips, tongue, underside of the tongue, cheek mucous membranes, vestibular groove, soft palate, etc. They may be accompanied by symptoms like bad breath, chronic pharyngitis, constipation, headaches, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, irritability, fever, and swollen lymph nodes. There are two types of conditions: one is recurrent mouth sores, also known as aphthous stomatitis; characterized by repeated outbreaks but heals without scarring. The other type is called periadenitis, where there is a red halo around the eroded area that heals with scarring. Therefore, it is advisable to rinse with saltwater regularly, maintain oral hygiene, consume zinc-rich foods, regulate emotions, avoid staying up late, smoking, and drinking. This can promote the healing of oral ulcers. Additionally, under the guidance of a doctor or pharmacist, some heat-clearing and detoxifying traditional Chinese medicines can be taken.

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Written by Li Jiao Yan
Neonatology
53sec home-news-image

What should I do about mouth ulcers in children?

When a child has mild oral ulcers, if the baby is not particularly uncomfortable and it does not affect their eating, no special treatment is needed. You can rinse with saline solution morning and evening. Avoid consuming spicy, irritating, overly hard, overly salty, or overly hot foods to prevent damage to the oral mucosa. For infants who are still breastfed, mothers should also ensure cleanliness of the breasts. Of course, if it affects eating and the baby is also crying and restless, it is recommended to go to the hospital for timely treatment. For children's oral ulcers, it is advisable to focus on prevention. Always pay attention to oral hygiene, have a reasonable diet, increase physical exercise, and enhance the body’s own resistance.

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Written by Li Cui
Dentistry
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Is vitamin C useful for oral ulcers?

When patients have oral ulcers, taking vitamin C can help repair the ulcers to some extent. However, it is generally recommended that patients use local medications in the mouth, which can provide quicker and more noticeable results. Sprays specifically for oral ulcers can be directly applied to the affected areas, or patches designed for oral ulcers can be adhered directly to the lesions, which can effectively help in healing the ulcers. Additionally, patients may appropriately take some oral vitamins that can effectively enhance the body's resistance and aid in the recovery from certain ailments. It is important to maintain correct dietary and lifestyle habits and pay attention to oral hygiene.