Sores on the roof of the mouth can be painful. It grows gradually, starting with a slight bump, eventually becoming more swollen and agonising. While most oral sores heal on their own, some may require medical attention and proper treatment. Identifying the cause is crucial, as sores can result from infections, injuries, or allergic reactions. Differentiating between these causes and understanding what you’re dealing with is key to finding and getting the right treatment.
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Common Causes Of Sores On The Roof Of The Mouth
In an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Maneendra, Consultant and HOD - Critical Care Department, Gleneagles Hospitals, Lakdi Ka Pul, Hyderabad, sheds light on common causes of sores on the roof of the mouth.
Starting with irritation and injury, he explains that hot food or drinks, sharp-edged foods, or accidental trauma can damage the roof of the mouth, leading to painful sores. In some people, dentures that don't fit properly, broken teeth, or uneven dental fillings can also contribute to mouth sores.
Infections are another common cause. Viral infections like herpes simplex, fungal infections such as oral thrush, or bacterial infections can all result in sores, according to Dr Maneendra.
Canker sores, or aphthous ulcers, are also a possible cause. These small, painful ulcers are often triggered by stress, certain foods, or minor injuries. According to StatPearls Publishing, aphthous-like ulcers can be a sign of bowel disease, including Crohn's disease, gluten-sensitive enteropathy, and ulcerative colitis.
He also advises considering allergic reactions to certain foods, oral care products, or medications. Additionally, underlying medical conditions like nutritional deficiencies (e.g., vitamin B12, iron), autoimmune disorders, or even cancer should be checked for and treated appropriately.
How To Know If A Mouth Sore Is An Infection
Mouth sores, particularly on the roof of the mouth, can be caused by various factors, ranging from an injury or irritation to infections. But the question that most people have is how can one know if their sore is due to an injury or irritation or if it is caused by an infection? To sort this out, Dr Maneendra helps distinguish between the two types of mouth sores. When it comes to sores caused by irritation, these are generally less severe and tend to heal on their own once the irritant is removed. These sores can be triggered by something as simple as sipping a hot drink, eating crunchy foods, or accidentally biting the roof of your mouth.
On the other hand, an infection often comes with other noticeable symptoms, meaning systemic symptoms. You might see redness and swelling around the sore, and in some cases, there could be pus or a discharge. But systemic symptoms include fever, fatigue, or swollen lymph nodes. Additionally, these sores tend to persist for a longer time and might worsen without treatment.
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Signs Your Mouth Sore Is Concerning
While most mouth sores are harmless and resolve on their own, there are sores that require medical attention. Common signs include:
- Unexplained or persistent sores lasting more than two weeks.
- Associated symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, weight loss, or a lump in the mouth.
- Bleeding, rapidly growing sores, or significant pain unrelieved by common measures.
- Sores in people with a history of smoking, alcohol use, or prior oral cancers.
To manage these sores, you can always try home remedies, including:
- Saltwater rinse
- Baking soda paste application
- Cold compress
- Hydration
- Avoid irritants, such as spicy, acidic, or hot foods
- Over-the-counter gels containing benzocaine or hydrogen peroxide (after consulting a doctor)
When To Consult A Doctor?
According to MedlinePlus, mouth sores usually take 10-14 days to heal but can take up to 6 weeks. The pain from a canker sore often goes away within 7-10 days, but it can take 1-3 weeks for the sore to fully heal. Large ulcers can take longer to heal.
According to Dr Maneendra, if mouth sores persist beyond two weeks or are accompanied by other concerning symptoms like fever, swelling, or severe pain, it is crucial to contact a doctor or a healthcare professional.
Additionally, if your sores are recurring, meaning if they occur again and again, or if you suspect cancerous lesions, particularly in high-risk individuals, consult a doctor immediately.