How many days does it usually take for oral ulcers to heal?

Written by Li Bao Hua
Dentistry
Updated on September 12, 2024
00:00
00:00

Oral ulcers occur on the mucous membranes of the mouth and are a common disease caused by low immunity, or a lack of vitamins and trace elements, leading to a mucosal disease of the mouth. Generally, oral ulcers can heal on their own in about 14 days, or two weeks. If the ulcers do not improve after two weeks, a biopsy is necessary to avoid potential malignancy. Oral ulcers may also be due to sharp tooth cusps or dental roots within the mouth, which are referred to as traumatic ulcers; these can be examined. If dental roots or other irritating factors are present near the ulcer, it is important to promptly remove these external irritants. Oral ulcers that do not heal on their own after two weeks require further biopsy.

Other Voices

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Zhang Shu Kun
Traditional Chinese Medicine
42sec home-news-image

What should I do if I have mouth ulcers due to excessive stomach fire?

Mouth ulcers due to excessive stomach heat are primarily caused by improper diet. For this condition, one should consume more foods and fruits that reduce stomach heat, such as apples, pears, watermelon, and grapefruit, as well as vegetables like lettuce and celery to effectively regulate stomach heat and improve symptoms. It is crucial to drink plenty of water, urinate frequently, and avoid consuming foods that increase internal heat and irritant foods to prevent exacerbating the condition. One must also ensure adequate rest, avoid excessive fatigue, particularly staying up late, and spend time in the sun to increase calcium absorption.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Li Cui
Dentistry
48sec home-news-image

Is vitamin C useful for oral ulcers?

When patients have oral ulcers, taking vitamin C can help repair the ulcers to some extent. However, it is generally recommended that patients use local medications in the mouth, which can provide quicker and more noticeable results. Sprays specifically for oral ulcers can be directly applied to the affected areas, or patches designed for oral ulcers can be adhered directly to the lesions, which can effectively help in healing the ulcers. Additionally, patients may appropriately take some oral vitamins that can effectively enhance the body's resistance and aid in the recovery from certain ailments. It is important to maintain correct dietary and lifestyle habits and pay attention to oral hygiene.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Wang Peng
Dentistry
45sec home-news-image

What is good to eat for oral ulcers caused by excessive internal heat?

Patients with mouth ulcers caused by excessive internal heat can take some Chinese patent medicines that clear heat and eliminate fire. They should also drink more water, eat light meals, and consume fresh fruits and vegetables. This not only supplements various trace elements and vitamins but also enhances the body's immunity and promotes quick healing of the ulcers. The exact cause of mouth ulcers is not yet fully understood, but the disease is self-limiting and usually heals completely within about seven to ten days, so patients need not worry too much. If the ulcers cause severe local pain, lidocaine gel can be used for local treatment. Applying watermelon frost or borax powder locally can also promote the healing of ulcers.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Li Cui
Dentistry
48sec home-news-image

Can oral ulcers be contagious?

Mouth ulcers are generally caused by localized mucosal erosion in the patient's mouth, often due to internal heat in the body or a deficiency of certain nutrients. They are not contagious and thus do not spread from one person to another. However, it is advised that patients pay close attention to oral hygiene, rinse their mouth promptly after meals, and brush their teeth regularly in the morning and evening using the correct brushing technique to maintain good oral care. When there is pain or noticeable erosion due to the mouth ulcer, patients can appropriately apply an oral ulcer spray. This can effectively help heal the ulcerated area and alleviate uncomfortable symptoms. Patients should also be sure to drink plenty of water.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Zhang Shu Kun
Traditional Chinese Medicine
40sec home-news-image

Can stomach fire cause oral ulcers?

If there is excessive stomach fire, it can cause oral ulcers, because excessive stomach fire leads to poor digestion in the gastrointestinal tract. If food cannot be digested properly, it will reflux into the mouth, and may also cause symptoms like throat pain and a dry, itchy throat. Therefore, if stomach fire occurs, it is essential to treat it promptly to avoid worsening the condition. Drinking some rose tea or chrysanthemum tea can effectively clear heat and detoxify, helping to reduce stomach fire. Most importantly, do not drink alcohol, smoke, or eat spicy and irritating foods, as these can exacerbate stomach fire.