Mouth ulcers, also known as canker sores, are small, painful lesions that can develop inside the mouth. They are usually round or oval in shape and have a white or yellow center surrounded by a red border. Mouth ulcers can be caused by a variety of factors, including stress, fatigue, hormonal changes, certain foods, and medications.
Most mouth ulcers heal within 7 to 10 days. However, some ulcers may take up to 2 weeks to heal, or longer.
What Causes Mouth Ulcers?
The exact cause of mouth ulcers is unknown, but several factors are believed to contribute to their development, including:
- Stress: Stress can trigger the release of hormones that can suppress the immune system, making the body more susceptible to developing mouth ulcers.
- Fatigue: Fatigue can also weaken the immune system, making it more difficult for the body to fight off infection and heal wounds.
- Hormonal changes: Hormonal changes, such as those that occur during menstruation or pregnancy, can also trigger the development of mouth ulcers.
- Certain foods: Certain foods, such as acidic fruits and vegetables, spicy foods, and nuts, can irritate the mouth and trigger the development of mouth ulcers.
- Medications: Some medications, such as chemotherapy drugs and antibiotics, can cause mouth ulcers as a side effect.
How Long Do Mouth Ulcers Take to Heal?
Most mouth ulcers heal within 7 to 10 days. However, some ulcers may take up to 2 weeks to heal, or longer. The healing time depends on several factors, including the size and location of the ulcer, the underlying cause, and the individual’s overall health.
How to Speed Up the Healing Process
- Keep your mouth clean: Rinse your mouth with warm salt water several times a day to help keep it clean and free of bacteria.
- Avoid irritating foods: Avoid eating acidic fruits and vegetables, spicy foods, and nuts, as these foods can irritate the mouth and slow down the healing process.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help reduce pain and inflammation.
- Use a mouthwash: Using a mouthwash that contains antiseptic ingredients can help kill bacteria and speed up the healing process.
- Apply a topical anesthetic: Applying a topical anesthetic to the ulcer can help numb the pain and make it more comfortable.
When to See a Doctor
Most mouth ulcers will heal on their own within 7 to 10 days. However, it is important to see a doctor if your mouth ulcer does not heal within 2 weeks, or if it is accompanied by other symptoms, such as fever, chills, or difficulty swallowing.
Conclusion
Mouth ulcers are a common problem that can be caused by a variety of factors. Most mouth ulcers will heal within 7 to 10 days, but some ulcers may take up to 2 weeks to heal, or longer. There are several things you can do to speed up the healing process, such as keeping your mouth clean, avoiding irritating foods, and taking over-the-counter pain relievers. If your mouth ulcer does not heal within 2 weeks, or if it is accompanied by other symptoms, it is important to see a doctor.
