Which vitamin deficiency causes oral ulcers?

Oct 18, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Liu Chao

Introduction

In general, oral ulcers may be related to deficiencies in vitamin B₂, vitamin B₁₂, vitamin C, vitamin B₁, and folic acid. If oral ulcers occur frequently, it is recommended to pay attention to a balanced diet and consult a healthcare professional when necessary. In daily care, one should consume more fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, eggs, and other foods rich in the aforementioned vitamins, and maintain good oral hygiene.

Generally, oral ulcers may be related to deficiencies in vitamin B₂, vitamin B₁₂, vitamin C, vitamin B₁, or folic acid. If oral ulcers occur frequently, it is recommended to pay attention to a balanced diet and nutritional intake, and consult a healthcare professional when necessary. Specific details are as follows:

1. Vitamin B₂

Vitamin B₂ participates in mucosal cell repair and metabolism, helping maintain the integrity of the oral mucosa. A deficiency can make the oral mucosa more susceptible to damage, leading to ulcers. Ulcers typically appear round or oval with red, swollen edges and a sunken center, accompanied by noticeable pain—especially worsened when consuming spicy or acidic foods.

2. Vitamin B₁₂

Vitamin B₁₂ promotes regeneration of mucosal cells and aids in repairing damaged tissues. A deficiency reduces the oral mucosa’s healing capacity, making ulcers more likely. Patients often experience recurrent ulcers, possibly accompanied by symptoms such as tongue numbness and reduced taste sensitivity, with a prolonged recovery period.

3. Vitamin C

Vitamin C enhances mucosal resistance and promotes collagen synthesis, supporting the healing of ulcer wounds. When deficient, the oral mucosa becomes more vulnerable to external irritants, increasing the risk of ulcers. Wound healing is slow, and patients may also experience gum bleeding and swelling.

4. Vitamin B₁

Vitamin B₁ plays a role in energy metabolism and helps maintain nervous system and mucosal health. Deficiency can lead to inflammation of the oral mucosa and increase the likelihood of ulcers. In addition to oral ulcers, patients may experience symptoms such as numbness in hands and feet and fatigue.

5. Folic Acid

Folic acid promotes cell division and growth. A deficiency disrupts mucosal cell renewal, predisposing individuals to ulcers. Ulcers commonly occur on the lips, inner cheeks, and tongue margins, and may be accompanied by symptoms like loss of appetite and pallor.

In daily care, it is advisable to consume more fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, and eggs—foods rich in the aforementioned vitamins. Maintain good oral hygiene by rinsing the mouth with warm water after meals, avoid biting the oral mucosa, and reduce the likelihood of developing ulcers. If an ulcer persists for more than two weeks without healing, prompt medical evaluation is recommended to rule out other underlying causes.

View All

How can a person develop mouth ulcers?

In general, mouth ulcers may be caused by factors such as high mental stress, nutritional deficiencies, recurrent aphthous ulcers, herpetic gingivostomatitis, or traumatic oral ulcers. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under a doctor's guidance. In daily life, maintain good oral hygiene by brushing teeth in the morning and evening, rinsing the mouth after meals, and avoiding excessively hot or spicy foods.

View Full Answer

Can oral ulcers be transmitted to another person?

In general, whether oral ulcers are contagious depends on their specific type. Common recurrent oral ulcers are not contagious; however, oral ulcers caused by viral or bacterial infections may be transmitted to others. It is important to maintain good oral hygiene in daily life, including brushing teeth morning and night, rinsing the mouth after meals, and avoiding sharing toothbrushes or eating utensils with others.

View Full Answer

Can kiwifruit treat oral ulcers?

In general, kiwifruit cannot directly treat all types of oral ulcers. It only has an auxiliary improving effect on oral ulcers caused by vitamin C deficiency, and shows no significant therapeutic effect on ulcers resulting from other causes. In daily life, to prevent oral ulcers, it is important to maintain a balanced diet. In addition to moderately consuming fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins, one should also avoid spicy and excessively hot foods.