Mouth ulcers or mouth sores are really common for both adults and children. Though it is common, it can be quite disturbing and painful especially for kids and babies.
Ulcers in babies usually would make them not know how to overcome the pain. Therefore, they usually would refuse to eat because of the pain.
As parents, we are the ones responsible to ensure that the ulcers go away and prevent them from recurring.
Types of ulcers that can occur:
- The most common type of ulcers that can occur to children is the canker sores. It is the round ulcers that develop inside your mouth’s soft tissue. They can be red, white or grey but they are not contagious.
- Cold sores are contagious and appear as fluid-filled blisters.
- Hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) typically presents as red blisters inside the mouth and on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet.
There are three stages of canker sores:
STAGE 1: Minor
Minor canker sores are small oval or round ulcers that heal within one to two weeks with no scarring.
STAGE 2: Major
Major canker sores are larger and deeper than minor ones. They have irregular edges and can take up to six weeks to heal. Major mouth ulcers can result in long-term scarring.
STAGE 3: Herpetiform
Herpetiform canker sores are pinpoint size, occur in clusters of 10 to 100, and often affect adults. This type of mouth ulcer has irregular edges and will often heal without scarring within one to two weeks.
The Causes of Mouth Ulcers
There are many reasons that can cause mouth ulcers, such as:
- Vitamin deficiency
- Allergy from food or other irritants
- Mouth ulcers can be triggered by minor injuries in the mouth like biting yourself or using a hard toothbrush
- The problem can be genetic too.
- Occur due to virus infection
What can you do to help ease the pain?
Ulcers do not require any special treatment or medication. It will heal in a couple of days or weeks. However,
- It is better to avoid hot, spicy or citrus food as they will make the ulcers hurt even more.
- The paediatrician may suggest applying teething gel or cream on the affected area.
- A small dab of witch hazel can also help with the inflammation but use it under the advice of your doctor.
- Apply an ice cube on the affected area. This will help reduce the pain.
- If your child has been introduced to solids, you may apply some ghee on the affected area.
- Keep them hydrated. Ensure that they are drinking enough water.
It is vital for parents to know the types of ulcers and the causes of why it is happening. This is to ensure that children are getting the right and fast treatment so that it won’t reoccur again.