Mouth ulcers: what helps and when to get them checked
Mouth ulcers are small, painful sores inside the cheeks, lips, tongue or gums. Most heal on their own in one to two weeks. Ask us about mouth ulcers that keep coming back or do not heal.
Common causes
- Biting your cheek or tongue
- A sharp tooth, broken filling or rubbing denture or braces
- Stress or lack of sleep
- Spicy or acidic food
- Low vitamins or iron
- Some illnesses or medicines
What you can do at home
- Rinse with warm salt water a few times a day.
- Avoid very spicy, sour or hot food until it heals.
- Use a soft toothbrush and brush gently around the ulcer.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Ask a pharmacist or dentist about a soothing gel.
When to see a dentist
- An ulcer that has not healed in two weeks (please get it checked)
- Ulcers that keep coming back
- A white or red patch, or a lump, in the mouth
- An ulcer caused by a sharp tooth, filling or denture
- Fever, or difficulty eating or swallowing
How we can help
We look at the ulcer and check for a sharp tooth, filling or denture that may be rubbing. We can smooth or repair these. If an ulcer needs more tests, we will refer you to the right specialist. We also treat using a soft tissue laser, which can be used for relief of some ulcers and cold sores.
Common questions
Are mouth ulcers contagious?
Common mouth ulcers are not contagious. Cold sores on the lip are different and can spread.
Can a tooth cause a mouth ulcer?
Yes. A sharp or broken tooth, a rough filling or a loose denture can rub and cause a sore.
Have a mouth ulcer that will not heal?
Message Dr S. Barath Kumar on WhatsApp or call the clinic to book a visit.
Gentle Touch Dental Clinic · U 74, New No 58, 5th Main Road, Anna Nagar, Chennai 600040 (near Tower Park). Monday–Saturday: 9:30 AM – 1:30 PM and 4:30 PM – 8:30 PM. Sunday: closed; emergency appointments on call at +91 98840 15026. Get directions.
This page is general information and not a diagnosis. Please see a dentist for advice about your own teeth.
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