What is a small mouth sore?
Small mouth sores, often called canker sores or mouth ulcers, usually present as small, painful lesions that can appear on the soft tissues of the mouth, including the lips, cheeks, palate, tongue and base of the gums. They are usually round or oval with a whitish or yellowish center and a red border. Although uncomfortable, these sores are generally benign and resolve on their own in one to two weeks.
What causes small mouth sores?
The causes of small mouth sores vary, but can include injuries to the soft tissues of the mouth due to biting, overly vigorous brushing or sharp foods. Other factors such as stress, nutritional deficiencies (especially iron, vitamin B12, zinc), allergic reactions, hormonal changes or certain medical conditions can also contribute to their appearance.
How can small mouth sores be treated?
Treatment of small mouth sores is primarily aimed at reducing pain and accelerating healing. Local remedies, such as antiseptic gels or medicated mouthwashes, can help relieve pain and prevent infection. Avoiding acidic, salty or spicy foods can also reduce irritation. Applying ice or taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce inflammation and pain.
What preventive measures can be taken against small mouth sores?
To prevent the appearance of small mouth sores, we recommend maintaining good oral hygiene, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and taking care not to bite the cheeks or tongue. It is also beneficial to reduce stress and maintain a balanced diet rich in essential vitamins and minerals. For those prone to allergies or food reactions, avoiding identified triggers can also help.
When should I consult a healthcare professional about a small mouth sore?
We recommend consulting a healthcare professional if mouth sores persist for more than three weeks, if they recur frequently, or if they are accompanied by signs of complications such as high fever, difficulty swallowing or weight loss. These symptoms may indicate an underlying medical condition requiring appropriate evaluation and treatment.
How can you tell the difference between a small mouth sore and a fever blister?
Small mouth sores, or canker sores, are non-contagious and generally located inside the mouth. They have a whitish center surrounded by an inflamed red area. Fever blisters, on the other hand, caused by the herpes simplex virus, often appear around the lips, are fluid-filled and highly contagious. Fever blisters go through various phases, including itching and burning, before breaking out and crusting over.
Is it possible for small mouth sores to be a sign of cancer?
Although small mouth sores are generally benign, it's crucial to consult a doctor if they don't heal after three weeks, if they multiply, or if they are accompanied by unusual pain, bleeding for no reason, or a sensation of hardness under the lesions. These symptoms could be signs of oral cancer. Early medical assessment is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Can natural remedies be used to treat small mouth sores?
Yes, some natural remedies can help relieve the symptoms of small mouth sores. Honey is renowned for its antibacterial properties and can be applied directly to ulcers to reduce inflammation and pain. Chamomile, used as an herbal tea or applied as a compress, can also help thanks to its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. However, it is advisable to consult a health professional before starting any natural treatment.
How often do small mouth sores appear in adults?
Small mouth sores are fairly common; around 20% of the general population experience them at some point in their lives. They can occur at any age, but are particularly common in young adults and teenagers. They can appear sporadically or be recurrent, depending on individual factors such as stress levels, eating habits and general health.
Are there associations between small mouth sores and other medical conditions?
Yes, small mouth sores can sometimes be associated with underlying medical conditions. For example, inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, as well as autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus, can be accompanied by the appearance of oral ulcerations. In addition, vitamin deficiencies, such as iron, vitamin B12 or folic acid, can also promote the formation of mouth ulcers. A medical assessment can help identify and treat the underlying cause.
