Mouth ulcers, also known as canker sores, can be caused by a variety of factors. Some common causes include:
- Minor Injury: Accidentally biting the inside of your cheek or lip, or brushing too hard with a toothbrush can cause a small ulcer to form.
- Certain Foods: Acidic or spicy foods, such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, chocolate, and coffee, can trigger mouth ulcers in some people.
- Stress or Hormonal Changes: Emotional stress or hormonal shifts, such as those during menstruation, can sometimes lead to the development of mouth ulcers.
- Nutritional Deficiencies: A lack of essential nutrients, particularly iron, vitamin B12, and folate (vitamin B9), can contribute to mouth ulcers.
- Allergies or Sensitivities: Certain individuals may develop ulcers in response to specific allergens or irritants, such as certain toothpastes or mouthwashes.
- Autoimmune Disorders: Conditions like celiac disease or Behçet’s disease, which involve immune system dysfunction, can cause recurring mouth ulcers.
- Genetics: There may be a genetic predisposition to developing mouth ulcers, as they often run in families.
- Smoking: Tobacco use can irritate the lining of the mouth and contribute to the development of ulcers.
It’s important to note that while most mouth ulcers heal on their own within a week or two, persistent or unusually large ulcers, or those accompanied by other symptoms like fever or swollen lymph nodes, may require medical attention from a local dentist or other local medical professionals.