Mouth Ulcers

According to NHS UK NHS UK Mouth Ulcers "Mouth ulcers are common and should clear up on their own within a week or 2". They are rarely a sign of anything serious, but may be uncomfortable to live with. You may have more than 1 ulcer at a time, and they can change in size. They are not contagious but should not be confused with cold sores which are contagious.

A pharmacist can recommend an Over The Counter (OTC) treatment to speed up healing, prevent infection or reduce pain, such as:

• Antimicrobial mouthwash e.g. Corsodyl
• A painkilling tablet, gel or spray e.g. Choline Salicylate (Bonjela) 
• A local anaesthetic oral gel containing e.g.  Lidocaine (Anbesol)
• Corticosteroid lozenges e.g. Hydrocortisone
• A salt (saline) mouthwash

However patients / customers should see a GP or dentist if they have a mouth ulcer that:

• Lasts longer than 3 weeks
• Keps coming back
• Grows bigger than usual
• Is near the back of their throat.
• Bleeds excessively

Causes of mouth ulcers

Most single mouth ulcers are caused by things you can try to avoid, such as:

• Biting the inside of your cheek
• Badly fitting dentures, braces, rough fillings or a sharp tooth
• Cuts or burns while eating or drinking – for example, hard food or hot drinks
• A food intolerance or allergy
• Damaging your gums with a toothbrush or irritating toothpaste
• Feeling tired, stressed or anxious

Sometimes they're triggered by things you cannot always control, such as:

• Hormonal changes – such as during pregnancy
• Your genes – some families get mouth ulcers more often
• A Vitamin B12 or iron deficiency
• Medicines – including some NSAIDs, Beta Blockers or Nicorandil
• Stopping smoking – people may develop mouth ulcers when they first stop smoking

Avoiding things that irritate the mouth ulcer should help:

• Speed up the healing process
• Reduce pain
• Reduce the chances of it returning