Thai Hospitals Reveal Six Causes of Mouth Ulcers
Thai hospitals identify six common triggers for mouth ulcers — including trauma, nutritional deficiencies, and food irritants — and advise seeing a doctor if ulcers are large, recurrent, or persist beyond two weeks
Thai medical experts outline six common triggers for mouth ulcers, explain which symptoms warrant a doctor visit, and share self-care tips.
Many people suffer from these painful sores that make eating and speaking difficult. Today we examine the causes, treatment methods, and warning signs that indicate a need for medical care.
Mouth ulcers are shallow, round or oval lesions typically measuring 1-5 millimeters. They appear white, yellow, or pale gray and commonly develop on soft oral tissues such as inner cheeks, inner lips, under the tongue, or on gums, causing pain when touched.
Six Causes of Mouth Ulcers:
1. Accidental biting or aggressive toothbrushing causing oral trauma 2. Insufficient rest 3. Nutritional deficiencies including vitamin B12, zinc, folic acid, and iron 4. Irritation from certain foods such as fried items, greasy foods, spicy dishes, cheese, or highly acidic fruits 5. Oral tissue allergic reactions to certain bacteria 6. Side effects from certain diseases or medications
Treatment Methods:
- Avoid spicy or acidic foods; eat soft foods - Maintain oral hygiene; rinse with salt water frequently - Get adequate rest and eat a balanced diet - Brush teeth gently - Apply topical ulcer medications typically containing benzocaine or lidocaine in gel form, or honey
When to See a Doctor:
Unusually large ulcers, recurrent outbreaks, new ulcers appearing before old ones heal, slow healing or ulcers lasting more than two weeks accompanied by high fever.
Although mouth ulcers often heal on their own and are not dangerous, monitor your body to prevent chronic conditions.
Sources: Bangkok Hospital, Rama Hospital, Sikarin Hospital
