What should I do if my child frequently has mouth ulcers?

Generally, frequent mouth ulcers in children may be caused by factors such as unbalanced nutrition, oral mucosal injury, recurrent aphthous ulcers, herpetic gingivostomatitis, or hand-foot-mouth disease. Depending on the specific situation, improvements can be achieved through general care, medication, and other treatments. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Unbalanced Diet and Nutrition

Picky eating in children can lead to deficiencies in B vitamins, vitamin C, or zinc, which impairs the repair of oral mucosa and increases the risk of ulcers. Adjust the diet to ensure adequate intake of vegetables, fruits, lean meat, and eggs. Nutritional supplements may be used when necessary to address specific deficiencies.

2. Oral Mucosal Injury

Biting toys, brushing teeth too hard, or accidentally biting the inside of the mouth during eating can damage the oral mucosa and lead to ulcer formation. Switch to a soft-bristled toothbrush and teach children to brush gently. Discourage chewing on hard objects and remind them to chew food slowly and carefully.

3. Recurrent Aphthous Ulcers

These recurring round ulcers in the mouth, often accompanied by significant pain, may result from immune system dysfunction or genetic factors. Under medical guidance, treatments such as Xisuangshuang spray, recombinant human epidermal growth factor gel, or chlorhexidine mouthwash can be used. Lidocaine gel may be applied for relief when pain is severe.

4. Herpetic Gingivostomatitis

Caused by infection with the herpes simplex virus, this condition leads to blisters on the oral mucosa that rupture and form ulcers, often accompanied by fever and excessive drooling. Under medical supervision, antiviral medications such as acyclovir granules or ribavirin granules may be prescribed. Rehabilitation New Liquid (Kangfuxin) can be used to support mucosal healing, and good oral hygiene should be maintained.

5. Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease

Caused by enterovirus infection, this illness results in blisters in the mouth, hands, and feet. Blisters in the mouth may break open and form ulcers, usually accompanied by fever. Under medical guidance, treatments such as Pudilan anti-inflammatory oral liquid or Xiao'er Chiqiao Qingre granules may be administered. A diet consisting of lukewarm liquid or soft foods is recommended, avoiding anything that might irritate the ulcers.

In daily life, it's important to foster healthy eating habits in children—avoiding picky eating, maintaining good oral hygiene by rinsing after meals, scheduling regular oral checkups to prevent injuries, avoiding crowded public places during outbreak seasons to reduce the risk of viral infections. When ulcers occur, avoid spicy or hot foods to minimize discomfort for the child.