There are a variety of causes of mouth sores, including infections, allergies, injuries, and autoimmune disorders. They can occur on any part of the oral cavity, including the lips, gums, tongue, cheeks, and palate. Most mouth sores are harmless and heal on their own, but some may indicate more serious problems or require medical attention. The purpose of this article is to provide you with an overview of mouth sores, their causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
Types of Mouth Sores
Mouth sores come in many different types, but some of the most common are:
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A canker sore is a small, round, or oval ulcer that is characterized by a white, yellow, or gray center and a red border. Usually, they appear inside the mouth, on the tongue, cheeks, or gums. Although they are not contagious, they can cause great pain and interfere with eating, drinking, or speaking. It is not known what causes canker sores, but they may be triggered by stress, trauma, hormonal changes, food sensitivities, or vitamin deficiencies.
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An HSV infection causes cold sores, which are blisters that appear on lips, noses, or chins. The blisters usually break open, ooze fluid, and crust over before they heal. Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), which can be transmitted through direct contact with infected people or objects. Cold sores tend to recur periodically, especially when the immune system is weak or stressed. Cold sores can also cause tingling, burning, or itching sensations.
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An overgrowth of Candida, a type of yeast normally found in the mouth, causes white, creamy patches or plaques to develop on the tongue, inner cheeks, roof of the mouth, or throat. This infection is caused by an overgrowth of Candida. Although thrush can affect anyone, it is more common in infants, older adults, diabetics, denture wearers, and those with weakened immune systems. Burning, soreness, and difficulty swallowing are also possible symptoms of thrush.
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Usually caused by chronic irritation from smoking, chewing tobacco, alcohol, or poorly fitting dentures, leukoplakia is a condition in which thick, white, or gray patches appear on the tongue, gums, or inside the cheeks. In the absence of treatment, leukoplakia can progress to oral cancer, which is a precancerous condition.
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In the mouth, oral cancer can affect any part of the body, including the lips, tongue, gums, mouth floor, or palate. A person who smokes, drinks alcohol, has human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, or has a family history of oral cancer is more likely to develop it. The symptoms of oral cancer include ulcers, lumps, red or white patches that do not heal, bleeding, pain, numbness, or difficulty chewing, swallowing, or talking.
Causes of Mouth Sores
Depending on the type and location of the sore, mouth sores can have a variety of causes.
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Some of the common infections that can cause mouth sores include strep throat, herpes simplex, chickenpox, shingles, mononucleosis, hand-foot-and-mouth disease, and HIV/AIDS.
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An allergic reaction to foods, medications, or substances can cause swelling, itching, or blistering of the mouth. Common allergens include nuts, eggs, milk, gluten, latex, penicillin, and aspirin.
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Trauma or damage to the mouth can result in cuts, scrapes, burns, or bites that can cause mouth sores. Some common causes of mouth sores are braces, dentures, toothbrushes, hot foods or drinks, acidic foods or drinks, and accidental biting.
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There are several autoimmune disorders that can cause mouth sores, including lupus, Sjogren's syndrome, Behcet's disease, and pemphigus.
Symptoms of Mouth Sores
There are a number of symptoms associated with mouth sores, depending on the type and severity of the lesion. Some of the common symptoms include:
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Mouth or throat pain or discomfort
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Eating, drinking, or speaking difficulties
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A change in taste or smell
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Oral swelling or redness
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Sores that bleed or ooze
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Malaise or fever
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Neck or jaw lymph nodes that are enlarged
Diagnosis of Mouth Sores
In order to diagnose mouth sores, a dentist or a doctor will examine the mouth and ask about your medical history and symptoms. Some tests can be done to confirm the diagnosis:
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An infection or cancer cell can be detected by taking a sample of the fluid or tissue from the sore and sending it to a laboratory for testing.
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An autoimmune disorder, infection, or inflammation can be detected through a blood test.
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The cause and severity of the sore can be determined by taking a small piece of tissue from the sore and examining it under a microscope.
Treatment of Mouth Sores
Some of the possible treatments for mouth sores depend on their cause and type.
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Antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals, or steroids can be prescribed to treat infections, reduce inflammation, or speed up healing. Painkillers, numbing agents, or anti-inflammatory drugs can relieve pain or discomfort.
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Some common topical treatments include hydrogen peroxide, salt water, baking soda, aloe vera, honey, or milk of magnesia to soothe, moisturize, and protect the oral tissues.
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This treatment uses a low-intensity laser beam to stimulate the healing of the sores or to remove abnormal tissue. Laser therapy can reduce pain, bleeding, and scarring, and may also prevent recurrences.
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In some cases, surgery is necessary to remove the sores or the affected tissue, especially if they are large, persistent, or cancerous. Surgery can also improve the mouth's appearance and function.
Prevention of Mouth Sores
The causes of mouth sores may be beyond one's control, but there are some general measures that may help reduce their risk or severity.
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Maintaining good oral hygiene by brushing, flossing, and rinsing regularly
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Regular dental and medical checkups and screenings
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Smoking, chewing tobacco, and drinking alcohol should be avoided
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Consuming a balanced and nutritious diet rich in vitamins and minerals
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Staying hydrated and drinking plenty of water
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Spicy, acidic, or hard foods, as well as allergens, may irritate or trigger mouth sores
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Stress management and relaxation techniques, such as meditation, yoga, or breathing exercises
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Getting medical attention and treatment as soon as possible, and following instructions
