May 05, 2026 Dental Health

Mouth ulcers – also known as canker sores or aphthous ulcers – are small, painful lesions that develop inside the mouth on the cheeks, lips, tongue, gums, or the floor of the mouth. While most ulcers are harmless and heal on their own within one to two weeks, they can cause significant pain and discomfort that interferes with eating, drinking, and speaking.

For patients who experience frequent, large, or unusually persistent mouth ulcers, a visit to We Care Dental Clinic in Sakchi, Jamshedpur can provide both immediate relief and longer-term solutions to prevent recurrence.

Types of Mouth Ulcers

  • Minor Ulcers: The most common type, measuring less than one centimetre in diameter. These are painful but generally heal without scarring within seven to fourteen days.
  • Major Ulcers: Larger and deeper than minor ulcers, these can take several weeks to heal and may leave scars. They tend to be more painful and require professional treatment.
  • Herpetiform Ulcers: Clusters of many tiny ulcers that may merge into larger, irregular patches. Despite the name, they are not caused by the herpes virus.

Common Causes of Mouth Ulcers

Mouth ulcers can be triggered by a variety of factors. Minor trauma from accidentally biting the cheek or tongue, sharp tooth edges, or ill-fitting dentures and braces are common causes. Nutritional deficiencies – particularly in vitamin B12, folic acid, iron, or zinc – can make a person more susceptible to recurring ulcers. Stress, hormonal changes, and a weakened immune system are also known triggers. In some cases, recurring mouth ulcers may be associated with underlying systemic conditions such as coeliac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, or Behcet's syndrome.

It is important to note that while most mouth ulcers are benign, any sore in the mouth that does not heal within three weeks should be evaluated by a dental professional. Non-healing ulcers can occasionally indicate oral cancer, and early diagnosis is critical for effective treatment.

Mouth Ulcer Treatment at We Care Dental Clinic

Our approach to mouth ulcer treatment depends on the frequency, size, and underlying cause of the ulcers. For immediate pain relief, we may prescribe topical anaesthetic gels, antiseptic mouthwashes, or anti-inflammatory medications.

For patients with frequent ulcers, we investigate potential nutritional deficiencies or underlying health conditions and coordinate with appropriate medical specialists if needed. Any sharp tooth edges, broken restorations, or poorly fitting dental appliances that may be causing trauma to the oral tissues are identified and corrected.

Laser Therapy for Mouth Ulcers: One of the most effective and modern treatments we offer for mouth ulcers is low-level laser therapy (LLLT). The laser promotes faster tissue healing and dramatically reduces pain – often in just one session. Many patients notice significant relief within hours of laser treatment.

How to Prevent Mouth Ulcers

While not all mouth ulcers can be prevented, several measures can reduce their frequency. These include maintaining excellent oral hygiene, eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, managing stress levels, avoiding foods that seem to trigger ulcers (such as sharp, acidic, or spicy foods), and visiting your dentist regularly so that any dental issues that could cause oral trauma are addressed promptly.

When should I see a dentist for a mouth ulcer?

You should see a dentist if your mouth ulcer has not healed after three weeks, if you frequently get multiple ulcers, if the ulcer is unusually large or painful, or if it is accompanied by difficulty swallowing or high fever.

Can mouth ulcers be cured permanently?

For ulcers caused by nutritional deficiencies, treating the deficiency often eliminates recurrence. For stress-related ulcers, lifestyle management helps. While complete permanent prevention may not always be possible, treatment at We Care Dental Clinic significantly reduces frequency and severity.