Does frequent mouth ulcers indicate a zinc deficiency?

Written by Wang Ji Zhong
Internal Medicine
Updated on September 07, 2024
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Oral ulcers are a common and frequently occurring disease, with many causes. A lack of trace elements, such as zinc, is also a factor in their development. In addition to this, the causes of oral ulcers include genetic factors, immune factors, infectious factors, and deficiencies in nutrients such as vitamin B2 and iron among other trace elements, all of which can lead to the occurrence of oral ulcers. Apart from comprehensive treatment, it is important to pay close attention to our diet regularly, supplementing vitamins and trace elements, for instance by eating more fruits and vegetables, and increasing intake of eggs and lean meat to replenish trace elements, thus preventing the recurrence of 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 Cui
Dentistry
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How to manage oral ulcers in summer

When patients experience oral ulcers, it may be due to hot weather in the summer or poor diet, leading to loss of appetite and lack of certain nutrients. It is recommended that patients adjust their diets accordingly, consuming light foods and staying hydrated. If patients lack appetite, they can eat some fresh vegetables and fruits to adjust their diet. Additionally, it is crucial for patients to avoid spicy and irritating foods, as these can worsen the ulcers and cause symptoms of heatiness. Therefore, during summer when experiencing oral ulcers, local treatment is also necessary. Topical medications for oral ulcers can be used to help heal the ulcerative lesions.

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home-news-image
Written by Wang Ji Zhong
Internal Medicine
46sec home-news-image

Does frequent mouth ulcers indicate a zinc deficiency?

Oral ulcers are a common and frequently occurring disease, with many causes. A lack of trace elements, such as zinc, is also a factor in their development. In addition to this, the causes of oral ulcers include genetic factors, immune factors, infectious factors, and deficiencies in nutrients such as vitamin B2 and iron among other trace elements, all of which can lead to the occurrence of oral ulcers. Apart from comprehensive treatment, it is important to pay close attention to our diet regularly, supplementing vitamins and trace elements, for instance by eating more fruits and vegetables, and increasing intake of eggs and lean meat to replenish trace elements, thus preventing the recurrence of oral ulcers.

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Written by Li Bao Hua
Dentistry
54sec home-news-image

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.