Understanding Mouth Sores: Causes, Treatments and Prevention

Mouth sores can be a common, albeit uncomfortable, part of life for many people. They can range from mildly annoying to quite painful, often affecting daily activities. Most mouth sores heal on their own; but in some cases, they may be recurring or signal an underlying health issue that requires treatment.

Below we’ll walk you through different types of mouth sores, their causes, prevention strategies and effective treatment options, helping you manage discomfort and maintain optimal oral health.

What are mouth sores?

Mouth sores are small but often painful lesions that can appear anywhere inside the mouth, including on the lips, gums, tongue and inner cheeks. They can range in size, color and severity, causing discomfort when eating, drinking or talking. Most mouth sores are harmless and go away on their own, but some may indicate underlying health issues or require professional treatment. 

While mouth sores are common and typically not contagious, understanding the different types can help you manage symptoms more effectively.

What kind of mouth sore do I have?

There are several types of mouth sores, each with unique causes and characteristics:

• Canker sores: These are small, found ulcers with a white or yellow center and a red border. They usually develop inside the mouth and are not contagious. Canker sores may be triggered by stress, injury or certain foods.
• Cold sores: Also known as fever blisters, these sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV) and typically appear on the lips or around the mouth. They are contagious and often begin with a tingling sensation before forming painful blisters.
• Leukoplakia: This condition causes thick, white patches to form on the inside of the cheeks, gums or tongue. Leukoplakia is usually painless but should be evaluated by a dentist, as it can be a precursor to oral cancer.
• Oral thrush: A yeast infection that results in creamy white lesions on the tongue or inner cheeks. It’s more common in people with weakened immune systems or those who wear dentures.
• Lichen planus: This inflammatory condition causes white or red patches or open sores in the mouth. It’s typically not contagious but may cause discomfort.

How to prevent mouth sores

While some mouth sores are unavoidable, especially those caused by viral infections or underlying medical conditions, there are several steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of developing them:

1. Practice good oral hygiene: Brushing and flossing daily helps keep you vermouth clean and free of harmful bacteria that could lead to sores. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid irritating the gyms and delicate tissues inside your mouth.
2. Watch your diet: Certain foods, especially those that are acidic, spicy or abrasive, can trigger mouth sores or irritate existing ones. Limiting your intake of foods like citrus fruits, tomatoes and crunchy snacks can help prevent irritation. 
3. Manage stress: Stress is a common trigger for canker sores. Incorporating stress-reducing activities such as meditation, exercise or deep-breathing techniques into your daily routine may help lower your risk.
4. Avoid tobacco and alcohol: Smoking and alcohol consumption can irritate the soft tissues of the mouth, making you more susceptible to sores. Limiting or quitting these habits can promote overall oral health and reduce your risk.
5. Stay hydrated: A dry mouth can contribute to the development of sores, as saliva helps protect the tissues in your mouth. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can keep your mouth moist and reduce irritation. 
6. Use a mouthguard: If you grind your teeth at night or play contact sports, using a mouthguard can protect your gums and the inside of your cheeks from injury, which could otherwise lead to the formation of sores. 
7. Avoid known triggers: If you notice that certain foods, medications or even toothpaste ingredients seem to cause mouth sores, try eliminating them from your routine. Switching to a toothpaste free of sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), for example, may help if you’re prone to canker sores. 

How to treat mouth sores

Treating mouth sores depends on their type and severity. While many heal on their own, some can benefit from home remedies or medical treatment to relieve pain and speed up recovery. 

Here are some effective treatments:

• Rinse with ½ teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of warm water to reduce swelling and bacteria.
• Use gels or ointments containing benzocaine or hydrogen peroxide to numb the sore, reduce inflammation and protect from further irritation.
• Hold an ice pack or ice cube near the sore to help reduce pain and swelling, particularly for cold sores or other lesions.
• Apply a small amount of pure aloe vera gel directly to the sore to help soothe discomfort and speed up healing.
• Refrain from eating spicy, acidic or salty foods that can worsen the pain and delay healing.
• Stay hydrated with plenty of water and get adequate rest to help your immune system work more effectively.
• For recurring or severe sores, your healthcare provider may recommend a prescription treatment, like antiviral medications or antimicrobial mouth rinses.
  

With these treatments, many mouth sores will heal within a week or two. 

When should you see a dentist for mouth sores?

Some situations warrant a visit to the dentist. If a sore persists beyond two weeks without signs of improvement, it’s smart to consult a professional, as it could signal an underlying issue that requires attention. Additionally, if a sore is causing severe pain or noticeable swelling that interferes with eating or speaking, a dentist can provide treatment options to alleviate discomfort and promote faster healing. 

Recurring mouth sores, especially canker sores or cold sores, may indicate an underlying condition or deficiency, and a dentist can help pinpoint causes while recommending a treatment plan to reduce recurrence. It’s also important to seek care if a mouth sore is accompanied by symptoms like fever, fatigue or swollen lymph nodes, and these could be a sign of infection that requires medical intervention.

If you notice that a sore has an unusual appearance — like being unusually large, irregularly shaped or showing unusual colors like a mix of red, white or blue — it’s best to get it evaluated to make sure there isn’t a serious health issue. 

Spirit Dental helps cover mouth sore treatments

When mouth sores require professional care, Spirit Dental is here to help make treatment affordable and accessible. With a range of dental insurance plans designed to cover exams, medications and specialized procedures, Spirit Dental ensures you get the care you need without financial stress. Whether you’re dealing with persistent sores, recurring outbreaks or unexpected symptoms, our plans offer flexibility and coverage tailored to support your oral and overall health.