Mouth ulcers: what helps, and when must you refer?
Most heal on their own. Treatment eases the pain — and one rule catches cancer.
Select any card for the reasoning, what to watch for and an exam tip.
Mouth ulcer treatments
Key points
- Most mouth ulcers are short-lived; mild, infrequent ones that don’t affect eating may need no treatment.
- Avoid known triggers: biting while chewing, ill-fitting dentures, and certain food and drinks.
- For recurrent aphthous ulcers, consider a vitamin B12 supplement whatever the blood level.
When to refer
Key takeaway
Steroid first for the ulcer, pain relief and antiseptic on top — and any unexplained ulcer past 3 weeks goes to a specialist, urgently.