Mouth Ulcers - What Are They All About?What causes outbreaks of mouth ulcers? The causes of mouth ulcers seem to have several contributing factors. The following item may play a significant role in their formation for any one individual: Toothpastes and mouthwashes that contain sodium lauryl sulfate. Research suggests that a person's use of products that contain sodium lauryl sulfate ("SLS"), a foaming agent found in most toothpaste and mouthwash formulations, could possibly be one of the causes of mouth ulcers. This is probably due to a drying effect SLS has on the protective surface of oral tissues. Once this protective layer has been compromised the tissue underneath is more vulnerable to irritants such as acidic foods. Several studies have reported that participants who brushed with a toothpaste that was SLS free found that they experienced a reduction in the number of canker sores that formed. This reduction was found to be 81% in one study. In this same study some of the participants reported that the mouth ulcers that did form were less painful than those that developed during those time periods when they had been using a toothpaste that did contain SLS.
What can I do to prevent mouth ulcers?
Unfortunately, doctor's know about as much about preventing mouth ulcers as they do about their causes. If you get canker sores often, or if they're very painful, talk to your family doctor. Mouth ulcers are sores that affect the mucous membranes inside the mouth that are not attached to bone and gum the vermillion border (outside) the lips - usually on the inner cheeks, gums or lips and, occasionally, the tongue. They may occur individually or in groups. There are three forms: minor, flat small, lasting 5-10 days, major, large (lasting 2-3 weeks); raised borders. Before it becomes visible, the mouth ulcer may produce a tingling or burning sensation. After 6-24 hours, it appears as a small, round depression 1/8" to 1/4" in diameter, surrounded by a reddened area of inflammation. The center is often grayish-white, due to a layer of dead cells - but underneath this layer, the tissue is extremely red and raw looking. A minor mouth ulcer is most painful during the first 3-4 days. The discomfort gradually diminishes and the sore heals in 10-14 days, usually without scarring. They may recur with variable frequency depending on, situational factors. At some point in the future, we should have a much better understanding about their causes.
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