Can severe oral ulcers lead to periodontitis?

Generally, whether severe oral ulcers may lead to periodontitis depends on the relationship between the two conditions. Severe oral ulcers alone typically do not directly cause periodontitis. However, if severe oral ulcers are accompanied by poor oral hygiene and excessive bacterial growth, the risk of developing periodontitis may increase. The detailed analysis is as follows:

If the severity is limited to the oral ulcer itself—such as large ulcerated areas and intense pain—but the teeth and gums are inherently healthy and basic oral cleanliness is maintained, with no significant bacterial invasion into the gum and periodontal tissues, then severe oral ulcers will not directly lead to periodontitis.

However, when patients with severe oral ulcers experience such intense pain that normal brushing and rinsing become difficult, food debris can accumulate, leading to rapid bacterial proliferation in the mouth. This can irritate the gums, causing redness, swelling, and bleeding. If not promptly addressed, the inflammation may spread further into the periodontal tissues, damaging the periodontal ligament and alveolar bone, potentially triggering periodontitis and resulting in symptoms such as gum recession and loose teeth.

To prevent mutual influence between oral ulcers and periodontitis, proper daily oral care is essential. Even during an oral ulcer outbreak, one should try to clean the mouth gently, for example, using a soft-bristled toothbrush for gentle brushing and mild mouthwash.