Frequent Mouth Ulcers: Causes and Remedies - Traditional Chinese Medicine

Q: Frequent Mouth Ulcers: Causes and Remedies

Dear Ms. <br>Lin / 27 years old / Female Online User： Hello, <br>1. <br>You experience mouth ulcers almost every month, which take about a week to heal. <br>Each time, you have 2-5 ulcers, primarily located on the upper and lower lips near your canine teeth, and sometimes on your

What to do about frequent mouth ulcers?

I almost get mouth ulcers every month, and it takes about a week to heal.
Each time, I usually have 2 to 5 ulcers, often located on the upper and lower lips near my canine teeth, and sometimes on my tongue.
I would like to know why I frequently get mouth ulcers and why they appear on my tongue.
Is it because I have excessive heat in my body?

Miss Lin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/10/05

Dr. Lin Qingzhong reply Traditional Chinese Medicine

Dear Ms.
Lin / 27 years old / Female Online User: Hello,
1.
You experience mouth ulcers almost every month, which take about a week to heal.
Each time, you have 2-5 ulcers, primarily located on the upper and lower lips near your canine teeth, and sometimes on your tongue.
This may be related to your immune system, especially if the occurrence of ulcers aligns with your menstrual cycle, as this is connected to hormonal changes in your body.
Additionally, poor oral hygiene, such as not brushing your teeth after meals and before bed, can lead to an overgrowth of normal bacteria or fungi in the mouth, resulting in ulcers.
A deficiency in essential vitamins, particularly Vitamin B12 and Vitamin C, can also contribute to this issue.
Furthermore, excessive sympathetic nervous system activity, referred to in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as "yin fire" or "deficiency fire," may cause mouth ulcers.
2.
If the occurrence of mouth ulcers is consistent with your menstrual cycle, it may be necessary to regulate your menstrual health and adjust your hormones.
3.
It is advisable to pay attention to oral hygiene, as poor oral cleanliness could be a contributing factor.
If you have dental issues, it is essential to brush your teeth diligently after meals and address any cavities.
Regular oral hygiene practices are crucial.
Supplementing with Vitamin B and C, especially Vitamin B12, is recommended.
4.
Additionally, monitor your urinary and bowel habits.
Symptoms such as dark yellow urine or constipation can indicate excessive heart heat, which may trigger mouth ulcers.
Undigested food accumulating in the intestines can also lead to this problem.
It is important to use herbal remedies to clear heart heat and promote bowel regularity, which can significantly improve your condition.
5.
In TCM, mouth ulcers are believed to be caused by heat in the internal organs.
Clinical treatment through TCM diagnosis can involve herbal remedies to clear heart heat and stomach heat, or lozenges containing herbs that clear heat and detoxify.
6.
Furthermore, dietary adjustments are important.
Drink plenty of water, consume vegetables rich in Vitamins B and C (such as brown rice), and engage in regular exercise and medical consultations to help improve your mouth ulcers.
7.
It is advisable to limit the intake of spicy and stimulating foods, manage stress, and adjust your body constitution to alleviate mouth ulcers.
If the above measures do not lead to improvement, consider visiting a TCM practitioner for a personalized diagnosis and treatment plan.
Wishing you good health,
Dr.
Lin Ching-Chung,
Director of the Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fengyuan Hospital,
Associate Professor, General Education Center, Chung Tai University of Technology.

Reply Date: 2015/10/05

More Info

Frequent mouth ulcers, also known as aphthous ulcers, can be a frustrating and painful condition. These small, shallow lesions can appear on the soft tissues of the mouth, including the inner cheeks, gums, tongue, and lips. Understanding the causes and potential remedies for these ulcers can help manage the discomfort and reduce their frequency.

Causes of Frequent Mouth Ulcers
1. Stress and Anxiety: One of the most common triggers for mouth ulcers is stress. Emotional stress can lead to changes in the immune system, making the body more susceptible to developing these painful sores. Many individuals report that their ulcers flare up during stressful periods, such as exams or significant life changes.

2. Nutritional Deficiencies: Deficiencies in certain vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin B12, folate, iron, and zinc, can contribute to the development of mouth ulcers. A well-balanced diet is crucial for maintaining oral health, and deficiencies can lead to increased susceptibility to these lesions.

3. Hormonal Changes: Some individuals experience mouth ulcers in relation to hormonal fluctuations, particularly women who may notice an increase in ulcers during their menstrual cycle. Hormonal changes can affect the immune response and the health of the oral mucosa.

4. Mechanical Irritation: Ulcers can also be caused by trauma to the mouth, such as accidentally biting the inside of the cheek or tongue, or irritation from dental appliances like braces or ill-fitting dentures. If you have a misaligned bite, as you mentioned, this could lead to repeated trauma in specific areas, resulting in ulcers.

5. Underlying Health Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), celiac disease, and autoimmune disorders, can manifest with recurrent mouth ulcers. If your ulcers are persistent and do not respond to typical treatments, it may be worth discussing with a healthcare provider to rule out these conditions.

6. Food Sensitivities: Some people find that certain foods, particularly acidic or spicy foods, can trigger or exacerbate mouth ulcers. Keeping a food diary may help identify any potential dietary triggers.

Remedies for Mouth Ulcers
1. Topical Treatments: Over-the-counter topical medications, such as benzocaine or hydrocortisone ointments, can provide temporary relief from pain and promote healing. These products create a protective barrier over the ulcer and can help reduce discomfort.

2. Salt Water Rinse: Rinsing your mouth with a warm saltwater solution can help reduce inflammation and promote healing. Mix about one teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and rinse several times a day.

3. Avoid Irritating Foods: While healing, it’s advisable to avoid spicy, acidic, or abrasive foods that can irritate the ulcers further. Opt for softer foods that are easier to eat and less likely to cause discomfort.

4. Maintain Oral Hygiene: Keeping your mouth clean is essential. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and consider using an alcohol-free mouthwash to avoid further irritation.

5. Stress Management: Since stress can be a significant trigger, incorporating stress-reducing techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, or yoga can be beneficial.

6. Nutritional Support: If you suspect a nutritional deficiency, consider consulting with a healthcare provider or nutritionist. They may recommend dietary changes or supplements to address any deficiencies.

7. Consult a Healthcare Provider: If your mouth ulcers are frequent, painful, or do not heal within two weeks, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider. They can evaluate your symptoms, conduct necessary tests, and provide a tailored treatment plan.

Conclusion
Frequent mouth ulcers can be caused by a variety of factors, including stress, nutritional deficiencies, mechanical irritation, and underlying health conditions. Understanding these causes can help you identify potential triggers and implement effective remedies. If your symptoms persist or worsen, seeking professional medical advice is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. Taking proactive steps to manage stress, maintain a balanced diet, and practice good oral hygiene can significantly improve your oral health and reduce the frequency of these painful lesions.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Mouth Sores: Causes and Connections to Oral Activities

Recently, I've been experiencing recurring mouth ulcers that seem to improve only to reappear shortly after. Could this be related to kissing or oral sex? Thank you.

Dr. Qiu Qiongyao reply Dentistry
Hello: The common causes of oral ulcers include staying up late, lack of sleep, high stress levels, a preference for spicy and greasy foods, and habits like smoking and drinking alcohol, all of which can lead to excessive liver heat, resulting in mouth sores. There may also be a ...

Understanding Frequent Mouth Ulcers: Causes and Solutions

Hello doctor, I have been experiencing frequent mouth ulcers for the past two to three years, and they are quite large, sometimes even bigger than a one-dollar coin. Although I had an MRI in September that showed no issues, it often takes a long time for the ulcers to heal (somet...

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
Hello, Mr. Luo You-jie: Irregular lifestyle, poor sleep, and high emotional stress can also lead to mouth ulcers. If you experience frequent mouth ulcers, it is advisable to consult a dentist for further examination. Dr. Tseng Guang-hui, Department of Dentistry, Nantou Hospital.

Understanding and Managing Recurring Mouth Ulcers: Causes and Treatments

I often experience mouth ulcers, sometimes on my tongue and other times in different areas of my oral cavity. I have seen a doctor and used medications such as "MUNDISAL GEL," but it does not provide a permanent solution. Each treatment lasts about 7 days or more, and u...

Dr. Zeng Fenyu reply Internal Medicine
Please see an otolaryngologist.

Understanding and Preventing Painful Oral Ulcers: Expert Tips

Hello Dr. Zhao, I often experience cracks in my oral cavity, and it hurts a lot when I eat or drink. How can I prevent this from happening again? I also applied Guangdong herb powder, but it still hurts. I really want to know if there are effective methods to heal this quickly. T...

Dr. Zhao Chongliang reply Internal Medicine
If there are frequent ulcers in the oral cavity, it is likely recurrent aphthous stomatitis, also known as stubborn oral ulcers or canker sores. The exact cause is currently unclear, but it may be related to individual constitution. Other factors that can easily trigger recurrent...