Exact causes are unknown. Many factors or diseases are associated with Mouth Ulcers-
- Genetic: Recurrent ulcers may have some genetic influence. It may run in families.
- Trauma: Accidental bite of cheeks during eating or speaking causes trauma to inner delicate layer in the mouth causing Ulcer. Crooked or sharp teeth or sharp foods may also cause injury. Ill fitting dentures may rub on the smooth surface of mouth.
- Aphthous Stomatitis (Canker Sores): These are sores that develop on the soft tissues in your mouth or at the base of your gums.
- Infections: viral infection like chicken pox, foot & mouth disease, herpes, infectious mononucleosis, gingivitis, tuberculosis, fungal infections, parasitic infections, syphilis.
- Low immunity: Low immunity can result in recurrent mouth ulcers.
- Medical factors: Many diseases cause recurrent mouth ulcers. Few of them are Crohn’s disease, Iron deficiency anemia, Celiac Diseases, Ulcerative Colitis, lichen planus, Steven Johnson syndrome, and Blood disorders..
- Medications: Certain medicines like Aspirin, Hydrogen peroxide, used in dental procedures may hurt mouth mucous membrane. Painkillers, antacids, beta blockers (to treat heart conditions) may cause mouth ulcers.
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Vitamin Deficiency:
Deficiency of Vitamin C may lead to condition called Scurvy. This impairs wound healing capacity. Deficiency of Vitamin B 12, folic acid, may cause recurrent mouth ulcers.
- Stress and anxiety: They can also trigger Mouth ulcers.
- Allergens: Certain foods can also cause increased sensitivity & ulcer formation. Certain products in some toothpaste like sodium lauryl sulphate may also trigger mouth ulcers.
- Hormones: women especially during periods or during pregnancy may suffer from mouth ulcers.
- Smoking: Quitting smoking causes cluster of Mouth ulcers in some, but this is temporary and subsides soon.
