Mouth ulcers are small lesions or sores that appear in the mouth. They can be round or oval in shape and are usually white or yellow in color. These ulcers can be painful and can cause discomfort when eating, drinking, or speaking.
There are several reasons why people develop mouth ulcers. Here are four of the most common reasons:.
1. Mouth Injuries
One of the most common reasons for mouth ulcers is mouth injuries. These injuries can be caused by accidentally biting the inside of your cheek or lip, brushing your teeth too hard, or even wearing ill-fitting dentures.
These injuries can cause a break in the skin, which can lead to an ulcer. In most cases, these ulcers will heal on their own in a week or two.
2. Viral Infections
Viral infections can also cause mouth ulcers. The most common virus that causes mouth ulcers is the herpes simplex virus. This virus can cause cold sores around the mouth, which can lead to ulcers.
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Another virus that can cause mouth ulcers is the coxsackie virus, which is responsible for hand, foot, and mouth disease. Viral mouth ulcers usually clear up on their own within a week or two.
3. Stress
Stress can also lead to the development of mouth ulcers. When you are stressed, your body releases hormones that can cause inflammation and weaken your immune system.
This can make it easier for bacteria and viruses to infect your mouth, leading to the formation of ulcers. Managing stress through relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, can help reduce the risk of developing mouth ulcers.
4. Nutritional Deficiencies
Nutritional deficiencies can also cause mouth ulcers. For example, a lack of vitamin B12, iron, or folic acid can lead to the development of ulcers. This is because these nutrients are important for the proper functioning of the cells in your mouth.
Eating a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and other nutrient-dense foods can help prevent the development of mouth ulcers due to nutritional deficiencies.
