Mouth Sores and Ulcers Treatment in London

Mouth sores, also known as aphthous ulcers or canker sores, are small, shallow lesions that appear on the soft tissues inside your mouth or at the base of the gums. While usually harmless, they can be painful and make eating, drinking, or talking uncomfortable.

For most people, mouth ulcers heal naturally within one to two weeks. However, if your sores are unusually large, persistent, or causing severe pain, it’s important to see a dentist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. At Thousand Smiles, we provide expert care to help relieve symptoms, speed up healing, and identify any underlying causes.

Common Symptoms of Mouth Sores

Symptoms vary depending on the severity and cause of the ulcers, but may include:

Small, round or oval lesions with a white or yellow centre and a red border
Pain or burning sensations in the affected area
Difficulty speaking, chewing, or swallowing
Multiple sores appearing at the same time
In severe cases, fever or swollen lymph nodes

Ulcers can appear on the inside of the lips, cheeks, tongue, or gums. If they do not heal within two weeks, professional assessment is recommended.

If you have persistent or painful mouth sores, call Thousand Smiles today on 020 3773 2280 to arrange an appointment.

020 3773 2280

Causes and Risk Factors

Mouth sores develop when the body’s immune system reacts to triggers such as irritation, infection, or nutritional deficiencies. Possible causes include:

Minor injuries from dental work, braces, or biting the inside of the cheek
Stress or hormonal changes
Deficiency in vitamins such as B12, folic acid, or iron
Certain medications, including painkillers or treatments for heart conditions
Food sensitivities (particularly to acidic or spicy foods)
Underlying health conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease or immune disorders

While anyone can develop ulcers, they are more common in teenagers and young adults, and may occur more frequently in people with a family history of the condition.

Diagnosis of Mouth Sores

In most cases, diagnosis can be made through a simple visual examination by your dentist. If your sores are severe, frequent, or resistant to standard treatment, additional tests may be recommended to check for underlying medical issues.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the severity of the sores and whether they are linked to other conditions. Mild ulcers often resolve without intervention, but professional treatment may be needed for more persistent or painful cases.

Mouth Rinses

Your dentist may prescribe medicated rinses containing corticosteroids (such as dexamethasone) to reduce inflammation, or anaesthetic rinses (such as lidocaine) to control pain.

Topical Treatments

Over-the-counter gels, creams, or pastes can be applied directly to ulcers to relieve discomfort and speed up healing. Common ingredients include benzocaine, fluocinonide, or hydrogen peroxide. Your dentist may recommend the most effective option for your situation.

Oral Medications

For severe or recurrent cases, oral medication may be prescribed. These may include:

Drugs used for other conditions, such as colchicine (for gout) or sucralfate (for stomach ulcers), repurposed to manage mouth sores.
Short courses of oral steroids, reserved for resistant cases due to potential side effects.

Cauterisation

In some cases, chemical or heat cauterisation may be used to seal the ulcer and reduce pain. Solutions such as silver nitrate or Debacterol can provide rapid relief and, in some cases, speed up healing.

Nutritional Supplements

If a deficiency is contributing to recurrent ulcers, supplements such as vitamin B12, folic acid, zinc, or iron may be recommended.

Treating Underlying Conditions

If your mouth sores are linked to another health issue, such as an autoimmune disorder or gastrointestinal condition, treating the root cause is essential to prevent recurrence.

Home Care and Lifestyle Tips

For minor ulcers, self-care at home can reduce discomfort and support faster healing:

Rinse with salt water or a baking soda solution.
Apply ice directly to the sore to numb pain.
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a mild, non-foaming toothpaste.
Avoid acidic, spicy, or abrasive foods.
Apply a small amount of milk of magnesia to the ulcer a few times a day.

Good oral hygiene and regular dental visits also help reduce the frequency of mouth sores.

Preparing for Your Appointment

To help your dentist make an accurate diagnosis, it may be useful to prepare the following:

A list of your symptoms, including when they started and any changes.
Information on medical conditions, medications, or supplements you are taking.
Notes on lifestyle changes or recent stress.
Details about your usual diet and any family history of recurrent ulcers.

Your dentist may ask questions such as:

How often do you get mouth sores?
Do you have other symptoms such as fever or fatigue?
Have you noticed any triggers, such as certain foods or stress?
Have you tried any treatments before, and were they effective?

Complications of Untreated Ulcers

Although most mouth sores are harmless, untreated or chronic cases can cause complications, including:

Severe pain making eating and drinking difficult
Risk of infection in open soresRisk of infection in open sores
Weight loss or poor nutrition due to reduced food intake
Impact on speech and daily comfort
In rare cases, an increased risk of oral cancer in patients with chronic oral lichen planus-type lesions

Professional evaluation is recommended if you are concerned.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are mouth sores contagious?

No. Canker sores are not contagious and cannot be passed from person to person.
How long do mouth ulcers last?

Most heal naturally within one to two weeks. Persistent ulcers should be assessed by a dentist.
Can stress cause ulcers?

Stress does not directly cause ulcers but is a common trigger in people who are already susceptible.
Should I worry if I get frequent ulcers?

Recurring ulcers may indicate an underlying condition or nutritional deficiency. Professional assessment is advised.
Can I still eat normally with mouth ulcers?

Yes, but it’s best to avoid acidic, spicy, or crunchy foods that may irritate the sores.

Why Choose Thousand Smiles?

Experienced dental team with expertise in diagnosing oral conditions.
Same-day appointments available for painful ulcers.
Access to a full range of treatment options, from medicated rinses to advanced therapies.
Personalised care and clear guidance on managing symptoms at home.