Mouth ulcers, also known as canker sores, are small, round lesions with a white or yellow centre and a red border. They can occur singly or in clusters on the inside of the cheeks, lips, gums, or tongue.
While most mouth ulcers are harmless and heal within a week, recurring or unusually large ulcers may indicate nutritional deficiencies, stress, or an underlying medical condition. Identifying the type of ulcer helps determine the most effective treatment and prevention plan.
Minor Ulcers
These are the most common type, usually small in size and round in shape. Minor ulcers heal within one to two weeks without scarring. They can occur due to stress, mild injury from brushing, or accidental biting of the cheek or lip.
Major Ulcers
Larger and deeper than minor ulcers, major ulcers can take several weeks to heal and may leave a scar. They are often linked to underlying health conditions such as autoimmune diseases or vitamin deficiencies.
Herpetiform Ulcers
These ulcers occur in clusters of tiny, pinhead-sized sores that may merge into a single large lesion. Despite the name, they are not caused by the herpes virus and are not contagious. They can cause significant discomfort and may recur frequently.
- Round or oval sores with a red or white border inside the mouth or on the tongue.
- Burning, tingling, or pain before the ulcer appears.
- Difficulty eating, drinking, or talking.
- Red or inflamed tissue surrounding the sore.
- In severe cases, swelling of the lymph nodes or mild fever.
Herpetiform ulcers may also cause clusters of painful pinpoint lesions that heal slowly and reappear periodically.
Mouth ulcers can be triggered by several factors, including:
- Accidental biting of the cheek or tongue.
- Ill-fitting dentures or orthodontic appliances.
- Brushing too hard or using a stiff toothbrush.
- Food sensitivities to citrus fruits, chocolates, or spicy foods.
- Visit Brisbane Emergency Dentist immediately — the sooner you arrive, the higher the chance of saving the tooth.
- Hormonal changes during puberty, menstruation, or menopause.
- Nutritional deficiencies (vitamin B12, iron, folate, or zinc).
- Stress and lack of sleep.
- Medical conditions such as celiac disease, diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease, or HIV.
If ulcers persist beyond two weeks or occur frequently, they may signal an underlying health concern that requires professional diagnosis.
In most cases, mouth ulcers heal naturally. However, when they are painful, recurrent, or unusually large, our dentists can provide targeted treatment to relieve pain and speed up recovery.
- Antibacterial or antiseptic mouthwash to reduce infection risk and promote healing.
- Topical gels or corticosteroid ointments to relieve inflammation and discomfort.
- Vitamin and mineral supplements (B12, zinc, folate, iron) to address nutritional deficiencies.
- Professional dental cleaning to remove irritants and prevent secondary infection.
- Advice on lifestyle adjustments, such as avoiding spicy foods, acidic drinks, and abrasive toothpaste.
For patients with frequent or recurring mouth ulcers, our dentists will carry out a detailed examination to identify the root cause and create a personalised prevention plan.
To prevent mouth ulcers and reduce recurrence:
- Maintain good oral hygiene with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Stay hydrated and eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals.
- Manage stress through rest and relaxation.
- Avoid known trigger foods and maintain regular dental check-ups.
If you’re experiencing persistent or painful mouth ulcers that don’t heal, book an appointment with Brisbane Emergency Dentist today. Our compassionate dental team will diagnose the cause, provide quick relief, and help you maintain lasting oral comfort and health