Swelling After Mouth Ulcer Healing: Is It Normal?

Q: Swelling After Mouth Ulcer Healing: Is It Normal?

Hello： The mouth sores have been slowly healing after two weeks, but there are some spots around them that are not painful and do not resemble blisters. <br>There is no history of smoking or betel nut chewing. <br>Generally, mouth sores heal on their own in about two weeks, but i

Swelling of a wound in the mouth?

Hello Doctor, about two weeks ago I had a mouth ulcer, and the wound has mostly healed now.
It doesn't hurt anymore, but there is still some swelling around the area.
Although the swelling is not significant, I can feel a slight bump where the ulcer was when my tongue or teeth touch it.
It feels swollen and hard, but it doesn't hurt and doesn't seem like a blister.
I don't smoke or drink alcohol, and I don't have any bad dietary habits.
In the past, after my mouth ulcers healed, the swelling would go away as well.
However, this time the wound has healed, but the swelling remains.
Is this considered normal? Will the swelling gradually subside? Thank you for taking the time to respond, Doctor.
Thank you! ^^

Xiao Zhi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2014/02/20

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

Hello: The mouth sores have been slowly healing after two weeks, but there are some spots around them that are not painful and do not resemble blisters.
There is no history of smoking or betel nut chewing.
Generally, mouth sores heal on their own in about two weeks, but if there is some swelling, it may indicate symptoms of an oral mucosal infection.
It is advisable to see a dentist for further examination.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2014/02/20

More Info

Hello! Thank you for your question regarding the swelling you are experiencing after your mouth ulcer has healed. It's great to hear that the pain has subsided and that the ulcer itself is healing. However, I understand your concern about the lingering swelling and the firmness in the area where the ulcer was located.

Firstly, it's important to note that after a mouth ulcer heals, it is not uncommon for some residual swelling or firmness to remain in the area. This can be due to several factors, including inflammation, the healing process, and the body's natural response to injury. When an ulcer occurs, the body sends inflammatory cells to the site to help with healing, which can lead to temporary swelling even after the ulcer has closed.

The fact that you are not experiencing pain is a positive sign. Pain is often an indicator of ongoing inflammation or infection. Since you mentioned that the area feels firm and slightly raised but is not painful, this could simply be a part of the normal healing process. The body may take some time to fully resolve the inflammation and return the tissue to its normal state.

Typically, the swelling should gradually decrease over time. The duration for this can vary from person to person, depending on individual healing rates, overall health, and any underlying conditions. In most cases, you can expect the swelling to diminish within a few weeks to a couple of months. However, if the swelling persists beyond this timeframe or if you notice any changes such as increased pain, redness, or discharge, it would be advisable to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.

In terms of your previous experiences with mouth ulcers, it's not unusual for each instance to be slightly different. Factors such as stress, dietary changes, or even hormonal fluctuations can influence the healing process and the body's response to oral injuries.
If you are concerned about the swelling or if it is affecting your ability to eat or speak comfortably, you might consider using warm saltwater rinses, which can help soothe the area and promote healing. Additionally, maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial to prevent any secondary infections.

In summary, while some residual swelling after a mouth ulcer has healed can be normal, it is essential to monitor the area for any changes. If the swelling does not improve or if you have any additional concerns, seeking advice from a dental or medical professional would be the best course of action. They can provide a thorough examination and determine if any further treatment is necessary.

Thank you for reaching out, and I hope this information helps you feel more at ease regarding your recovery!

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