What are oral ulcers like?

Written by Zhang Jun
Otolaryngology
Updated on September 07, 2024
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Oral ulcers refer to localized lesions occurring on the oral mucous membranes, such as the inner cheeks, the underside of the tongue, and the mucous membrane of the tongue. There are various causes of oral ulcers. Commonly seen causes in clinical practice include repeated dental calculus, irritation from dental caries, prolonged intake of spicy foods, gastrointestinal dysfunction, acid reflux irritation, and endocrine disorders. Nutritional deficiencies due to selective eating can also lead to such mucosal lesions. Upon examination, scattered, isolated, crater-like ulcers can be found in any part of the oral cavity. The pain is significant in the affected areas, and bloody secretions may be observed when pressed. For treatment, patients are initially advised to use watermelon frost spray for external application, which has been found to be effective. Additionally, maintaining a bland diet, abstaining from smoking and alcohol, avoiding spicy foods, and controlling acid reflux with regular meals can gradually lead to improvement. (Note: The use of medications should be carried out under the guidance of a professional doctor.)

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Written by Yao Li Qin
Pediatrics
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How to treat baby's oral ulcers

Babies with oral ulcers definitely need active treatment. There are many common causes of oral ulcers. If it is caused by viral infection and accompanied by fever, children should be given some antiviral medications. If the body temperature exceeds 38.5 degrees, fever-reducing medications should be administered. Additionally, local ulcers can be treated by applying some mucosal protectants to promote the healing of the ulcers. At the same time, administering some compound B-group vitamins to the child is also very important for the repair of oral ulcers. Furthermore, it is important to strengthen the adjustment of the child's dietary structure. Ensure a diet rich in a variety of vitamins from fruits and vegetables. If the child's oral ulcers are caused by a bacterial infection, antibiotics should be used under the guidance of a hospital doctor. Local oral ulcers should still be treated with mucosal protectants and healing agents. Meanwhile, timely supplementation of B-group vitamins is necessary.

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Written by Li Cui
Dentistry
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What water should you drink for frequent oral ulcers?

Patients who frequently suffer from oral ulcers can appropriately drink some herbal teas to clear internal heat, such as honeysuckle tea or chrysanthemum tea, which are good choices. It is important to drink plenty of water. If you frequently have oral ulcers, it is suggested that patients visit a hospital to diagnose the causes of the oral ulcers, identifying what leads to them. Because recurrent severe oral ulcers can often be caused by systemic diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosus or other diseases, which may lead to oral ulcers. Only by identifying the specific underlying causes can effective treatment be achieved. Additionally, oral ulcers may also be related to the patient's diet and lifestyle. Some patients may also experience ulcers due to high work stress, tension, or fatigue, and the long-term use of certain medications can lead to recurrent oral ulcers.

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Written by Wang Peng
Dentistry
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What is good to eat for oral ulcers caused by excessive internal heat?

Patients with mouth ulcers caused by excessive internal heat can take some Chinese patent medicines that clear heat and eliminate fire. They should also drink more water, eat light meals, and consume fresh fruits and vegetables. This not only supplements various trace elements and vitamins but also enhances the body's immunity and promotes quick healing of the ulcers. The exact cause of mouth ulcers is not yet fully understood, but the disease is self-limiting and usually heals completely within about seven to ten days, so patients need not worry too much. If the ulcers cause severe local pain, lidocaine gel can be used for local treatment. Applying watermelon frost or borax powder locally can also promote the healing of ulcers.

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Written by Wang Ji Zhong
Internal Medicine
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Can frequent oral ulcers turn cancerous?

There are many causes of oral ulcers, they recur easily, and heal slowly. Frequent ulcers make many people worry about the possibility of cancerous changes. If an oral ulcer does not heal over a long period, there indeed is a tendency for it to turn cancerous. Chronic ulcers are also a cause of cancer, so it is essential to pay attention to one's oral health. For instance, oral ulcers must be treated promptly to eliminate the cause and provide symptomatic treatment. Treatment methods should combine systemic and local treatments. It is especially important to pay attention to those oral ulcers that do not heal over an extended period, as they are precancerous lesions and are very likely to turn cancerous. A biopsy may be necessary to make a definitive diagnosis to facilitate timely treatment.

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Written by Li Bao Hua
Dentistry
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Which department should I go to for oral ulcers?

Oral ulcers are manifestations of other diseases in the oral cavity and are not a singular oral disease. However, oral ulcers are primarily investigated in the department of stomatology, specifically within the oral mucosa department. Common causes of oral ulcers include a weakened immune system, which requires strengthening resistance through methods such as enhanced physical exercise or consuming more vegetables and fruits to increase vitamin intake. Oral ulcers may also be caused by irritation from dental calculus or tooth roots, categorizing them as traumatic ulcers, which necessitate the timely removal of irritating factors. Additionally, oral ulcers may be related to genetic factors or result from viral infections. Therefore, it is important first to identify the underlying cause for further investigation.