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Attention, chocolate lovers: You may not be able to help yourselves. Swiss and British scientists have linked the widespread love of chocolate to a chemical "signature" that may be programmed into our metabolic systems.
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Mouth Ulcer

Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors

A mouth ulcer is a small sore in the mucuous membranes inside the mouth.

What is going on in the body?

The mouth is sensitive to many irritations. Problems in other parts of the body can also cause sores in the mouth. Although most mouth sores will go away by themselves and are of little concern, some are much more serious.

What are the causes and risks of the condition?

There are many causes of mouth ulcers. They range from minor irritants to mouth cancer. Some of the common causes are as follows:

accidental cheek, lip, or tongue biting

accidental damage from tooth brushing

allergic reaction to medications

burns from food or drink that is too hot

burns or irritations from medications, such as aspirin

cancer of the mouth or lips

chemotherapy or radiation therapy

denture sores

electrical burns

food allergy

HIV, the virus that causes AIDS

food allergy

an impacted tooth

irritation from a dental procedure

irritation from orthodontic appliances

localized irritation from a disease, such as Parkinson's disease

medications that cause mouth dryness, including antihistamines such as diphenhydramine

a new tooth coming in, known as a tooth eruption

reactions to tobacco products

serious medical illnesses that weaken the person, such as cancer

some sexually transmitted diseases, such as Neisseria gonorrhoeae\ bacteria. These infections are usually acquired through sexual contact. A gonococcal infection may also be passed from mother to baby during childbirth. ',CAPTION,'Gonococcal Infections');" onmouseout="return nd();"> gonorrhea

viral disease, such as oral herpes

Women are more prone to mouth ulcers than men are, especially during pregnancy or right before a menstrual period.

Symptoms & Signs

What are the signs and symptoms of the condition?

Mouth ulcers are generally yellow or gray in color and about 3 centimeters in size. Other signs and symptoms may include the following:

difficulty chewing

mild fever

pain when brushing or using mouthwash

soreness

swelling around the ulcer

Diagnosis & Tests

How is the condition diagnosed?

Since many mouth sores look alike, diagnosis is best done by a health professional. Any ulcer of the mouth or lips that lasts longer than a week should be seen by a healthcare professional.

Prevention & Expectations

What can be done to prevent the condition?

Some methods to prevent mouth ulcers include the following:

Avoid food and drinks that are too hot.

Avoid foods, medications, and other substances that trigger allergic reactions.

Drink plenty of liquids when taking medications that cause mouth dryness.

Eat a balanced diet, following the Food Guide Pyramid.

Follow good oral hygiene, including regular tooth brushing and flossing.

Practice safer sex to avoid sexually transmitted diseases

Seek prompt treatment for denture problems, impacted teeth, or irritating orthodontic appliances.

Quit smoking.

What are the long-term effects of the condition?

Mouth ulcers rarely cause long-term effects, unless they become seriously infected.

What are the risks to others?

Some mouth ulcers are contagious through direct contact, while others are not.

Treatment & Monitoring

What are the treatments for the condition?

Many mouth ulcers will go away on their own without treatment. Some measures to speed the healing process include the following:

Clean the area gently with a very soft brush and mild (1-1/2%) hydrogen peroxide or a warm salt water solution made by adding 1/2 teaspoon salt to a full glass of warm water).

Do not use any medications before checking with a health professional.

Keep the area clean and clear of food scraps.

See a healthcare provider if the ulcer lasts more than a week.

The healthcare provider may prescribe a liquid paint, mouthwash, gel, or rinse to treat the mouth ulcer.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

Rarely, medications used to treat mouth ulcers may cause an allergic reaction.

What happens after treatment for the condition?

Mouth ulcers usually go away on their own or with treatment. If the underlying cause of the ulcers is not treated, they may recur. A person with recurring mouth ulcers should see a healthcare professional for further diagnosis.

How is the condition monitored?

Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.

Attribution

Author:Marvin Goldfogel, DDS
Date Written:
Editor:Ballenberg, Sally, BS
Edit Date:03/30/01
Reviewer:Eileen McLaughlin, RN, BSN
Date Reviewed:08/06/01

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