Why mouth ulcers appear and what you can do to ease the symptoms

Small mouth ulcers can make eating, drinking and even speaking surprisingly uncomfortable. They usually heal on their own within one or two weeks, but understanding their triggers can help people manage and sometimes prevent them.

The ulcers are common, especially among teenagers and young adults. Some people experience one or two each year, while others develop them every month. They are generally harmless and are not contagious.

A simple injury often causes an ulcer. Biting the inside of the cheek, brushing against the gums with a toothbrush, or irritation from braces or dentures can damage the mouth’s lining. Spicy, salty and acidic foods can also irritate it. Stress, tiredness and hormonal changes may contribute, and some people notice ulcers around menstruation or during pressure at work or home.

In other cases, ulcers may be linked to low levels of iron, zinc, folate, B vitamins or vitamin D. They can also occur alongside conditions such as coeliac disease or Crohn’s disease, or when the immune system is weakened. If a deficiency seems likely, a doctor can order a blood test and recommend suitable supplements.

Some medicines can trigger ulcers, including certain anti-inflammatory drugs, beta-blockers used for heart problems and bronchodilators used for lung conditions. Recurrent ulcers can also run in families. People who stop smoking may develop them during the first two weeks of withdrawal. These ulcers are generally mild and disappear within a month.

There is no instant cure, but rinsing with warm salt water can ease discomfort and reduce inflammation. Most ulcers clear without treatment within one or two weeks.