Can oral ulcers be contagious?

Written by Li Cui
Dentistry
Updated on March 13, 2025
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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.

Other Voices

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Written by Liu Li
Pediatrics
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What should I do if a child has bad breath and oral ulcers?

If a child has bad breath and symptoms of oral ulcers, these issues are mostly caused by poor gastrointestinal health. Parents should first take their child to a hospital for a detailed examination. If it is oral ulcers, then some vitamins can be supplemented for the child. In their daily diet, they should eat more light and easily digestible foods, avoid heavy and spicy foods, and not eat junk food. It is better to eat more fresh fruits and vegetables. (If medication is needed, please proceed under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Wang Ji Zhong
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Can frequent oral ulcers turn cancerous?

There are many causes of oral ulcers, they recur easily, and heal slowly. Frequent ulcers make many people worry about the possibility of cancerous changes. If an oral ulcer does not heal over a long period, there indeed is a tendency for it to turn cancerous. Chronic ulcers are also a cause of cancer, so it is essential to pay attention to one's oral health. For instance, oral ulcers must be treated promptly to eliminate the cause and provide symptomatic treatment. Treatment methods should combine systemic and local treatments. It is especially important to pay attention to those oral ulcers that do not heal over an extended period, as they are precancerous lesions and are very likely to turn cancerous. A biopsy may be necessary to make a definitive diagnosis to facilitate timely treatment.

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Written by Li Bao Hua
Dentistry
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How many days does it usually take for oral ulcers to heal?

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.

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Written by Li Cui
Dentistry
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Can I take acyclovir tablets if I have severe oral ulcers?

When patients experience severe oral ulcers, it is generally not recommended to take acyclovir tablets, because acyclovir is used to treat symptoms caused by some viral infections. If the disease is caused by viral infections, acyclovir can be taken orally. When oral ulcers occur, they are generally caused by "internal heat" in the patient's body, possibly due to a decrease in resistance, leading to local mucosal ulceration, bleeding, and pain in the mouth. When patients have low resistance, it is suggested that they adjust their resistance appropriately, eat more fresh vegetables and fruits, ensure adequate rest, drink plenty of water, and adjust their lifestyle appropriately without overeating or drinking. Oral ulcers and acyclovir are not closely related, so it is advised not to take acyclovir tablets when oral ulcers occur. (Medication should be administered under the guidance of a physician.)

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Written by Li Cui
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Can I eat donkey-hide gelatin if I often have oral ulcers?

Patients who frequently suffer from oral ulcers are advised to consume less donkey-hide gelatin and avoid consuming it in large quantities. This is because excessive consumption of donkey-hide gelatin may lead to "internal heat" in some patients, which can exacerbate the condition of oral ulcers. If the donkey-hide gelatin is part of some traditional Chinese medicine formulas, it is generally safe to consume, and patients need not worry too much. However, patients who often suffer from oral ulcers must seek timely medical consultation to diagnose what causes their ulcers, as other systemic diseases can also cause ulcers. Therefore, it is advisable for patients to identify the cause early and formulate a specific treatment plan. If the occurrence of oral ulcers is occasional and mild, patients need not be overly concerned; topical anti-ulcer medication can be used and can be very effective in treatment.