What causes frequent mouth ulcers?
Mar 22, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Chao
Introduction
In general, recurrent oral ulcers may be caused by factors such as abnormal occlusion, poor oral hygiene, anemia, gastric ulcers, or systemic lupus erythematosus. The appropriate treatment depends on the specific cause and should be determined by a healthcare professional. It is advisable to seek medical attention promptly and follow the doctor's instructions for treatment. Maintaining good daily habits and dietary practices can help prevent oral ulcers.
In general, recurrent oral ulcers may be caused by abnormal occlusion, poor oral hygiene, anemia, gastric ulcers, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and other factors. The solution depends on the specific cause and prompt medical consultation is recommended for treatment as directed by a physician. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Abnormal occlusion: Patients with abnormal occlusion or disordered occlusal relationships may easily injure the oral mucosa while chewing, leading to ulcers, and may also experience tooth pain. Occlusal adjustment or orthodontic treatment can resolve occlusion problems and prevent mucosal damage.
2. Poor oral hygiene: Poor oral hygiene, such as accumulation of dental calculus and plaque, can easily irritate the oral mucosa, causing ulcers accompanied by bad breath. It is important to improve oral hygiene by brushing teeth regularly, using dental floss to clean interdental spaces, and undergoing regular dental check-ups and professional cleaning.
3. Anemia: Anemia caused by deficiencies in vitamins or trace elements may lead to reduced immunity, resulting in recurrent oral ulcers, accompanied by pallor. As directed by a physician, medications such as azathioprine tablets, prednisone acetate tablets, and ferrous sulfate tablets may be used to supplement iron and manage the condition.
4. Gastric Ulcer: Gastric ulcers may cause digestive dysfunction, affecting nutrient absorption and utilization, thus triggering oral ulcers. Harmful substances produced by gastric ulcers may also reach the oral mucosa through the bloodstream, irritating ulcer formation, often accompanied by abdominal pain. As directed by a physician, medications such as esomeprazole magnesium enteric-coated tablets, rabeprazole sodium enteric-coated tablets, and lansoprazole tablets may be used for acid suppression and gastric mucosal protection therapy.
5. Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Systemic lupus erythematosus is an autoimmune disease that can affect multiple organ systems. This condition can damage the oral mucosa, leading to oral ulcers, accompanied by fever. Under medical guidance, medications such as prednisone acetate tablets, clobetasol propionate cream, and methylprednisolone tablets may be used for immunosuppressive therapy.
Maintaining good daily habits and dietary practices can help prevent oral ulcers.
