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 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 Li Bao Hua
Dentistry
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How many days will it take for oral ulcers to heal?

Oral ulcers are a common disease in the department of oral mucous membrane, prevalent among people of all ages, especially in children and the elderly who have lower resistance. If oral ulcers are caused by residues in the mouth or stimulation from sharp teeth edges, known as traumatic ulcers, it is necessary to promptly remove the irritants for the ulcers to heal. If the irritant factors are not removed, the oral ulcers will not improve, and severe cases may lead to cancerous changes. Generally, oral ulcers can heal on their own in about two weeks, or 14 days. If the ulcers do not heal after two weeks and keep recurring without improvement, one should be cautious about the possibility of cancer and further biopsy should be conducted for assessment.

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Written by Huang Kun Mei
Pediatrics
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Causes of Baby's Oral Ulcers

Baby's oral ulcers generally are considered under the following circumstances: The first type is caused by infections, such as viral infections, herpes, etc.; the second type might be due to a deficiency in vitamins or trace elements, such as when children are picky eaters, which can lead to poor nutrition and vitamin deficiencies. The third type is traumatic oral ulcers which might occur if the child does not often chew hard objects; these are the general scenarios. We should always encourage children to eat fresh vegetables and fruits to prevent the occurrence of oral ulcers. Since vitamin deficiency is the most common cause of oral ulcers, it is important to consume fresh vegetables and fruits and avoid habits like children biting their fingers or eating random items, which might cause infection-induced ulcers. If the child uses medicine spray like "Kaikoujian", and it works well, that's adequate for home observation. If after using the medication and increasing the intake of vegetables and fruits, the results are not ideal, then it is necessary to visit the hospital promptly. (The use of medications should be under the guidance of a physician.)

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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.

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Written by Liu Li
Pediatrics
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What should I do if a child has bad breath and oral ulcers?

If a child has bad breath and symptoms of oral ulcers, these issues are mostly caused by poor gastrointestinal health. Parents should first take their child to a hospital for a detailed examination. If it is oral ulcers, then some vitamins can be supplemented for the child. In their daily diet, they should eat more light and easily digestible foods, avoid heavy and spicy foods, and not eat junk food. It is better to eat more fresh fruits and vegetables. (If medication is needed, please proceed under the guidance of a doctor.)