Mouth Ulcers on the Tongue: Causes, Symptoms and Effective Remedies
Mouth ulcers on the tongue can be small, but no less annoying for it. If you’ve ever felt that sharp pain when eating something salty or acidic, you know exactly what we mean. As well as being uncomfortable, they can raise questions: Why do these ulcers appear? Are they dangerous? How can I heal them quickly? Here we explain it all, from the causes to the best remedies to treat and prevent them.
What are mouth ulcers on the tongue and how to recognise them?
Mouth ulcers on the tongue are small ulcers or open sores that appear on the surface of the tongue. Although they’re usually harmless and clear up on their own, sometimes they can be a sign of other underlying problems.
The most common types of ulcers on the tongue
- Canker sores (aphthous ulcers): these are the most common type. Small, round and whitish or yellowish, surrounded by a reddish border.
- Cold sores: although they usually appear on the lips, they sometimes also affect the tongue, causing painful sores.
- Traumatic ulcers: caused by accidental bites, dental appliances or sharp teeth.
Associated symptoms you should know
● Pain or burning, especially when eating or drinking acidic foods.
● Redness or inflammation around the ulcer.
● In more severe cases, fever or general malaise.
Why ulcers appear on the tongue: factors and triggers
If you wonder “why do ulcers appear on the tongue?”, you should know that the causes can range from simple factors to more serious conditions.
Eating habits and stress as frequent causes
Eating too much spicy, acidic or hot food can irritate the tongue and cause ulcers. In addition, stress and anxiety are common triggers, as they weaken the immune system and increase the likelihood of them appearing.
Underlying diseases and conditions that can cause them
● Nutritional deficiencies: a lack of iron, vitamin B12 or folic acid can cause recurrent ulcers.
● Viral infections: such as herpes simplex or mononucleosis.
● Autoimmune diseases: some, such as lupus or Behçet’s syndrome, can show up with mouth ulcers.
The influence of oral hygiene on the appearance of ulcers
Poor oral hygiene can encourage the build-up of bacteria, which irritates the tongue and contributes to the appearance of ulcers. On the other hand, aggressive brushing or the use of toothpastes with sodium lauryl sulphate can also irritate the tongue.
How to heal ulcers on the tongue effectively
Although ulcers usually clear up on their own within a few days, there are several ways to speed up the process and ease the pain.
Home remedies to ease the pain and speed up healing
● Salt-water rinses: mix a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and rinse your mouth several times a day.
● Bicarbonate of soda: apply it directly to the ulcer or use it in a rinse to reduce the acidity.
● Honey: it has antibacterial and soothing properties. Apply it directly to the ulcer to ease the pain.
● Chamomile infusions: use them as a rinse or compress to soothe the irritation.
Medical treatments: when to see a specialist
If the ulcers don’t go away within 10-14 days, are extremely painful or come with a fever, consult a dentist or doctor. In some cases, treatment with topical corticosteroids or medicated rinses may be needed.
Prevention: practical tips to stop them coming back
● Keep up good oral hygiene, but avoid brushing too hard.
● Cut down on irritating foods, such as citrus fruits, spicy food and very hot drinks.
● Manage stress through relaxation techniques, such as meditation or exercise.
● Make sure you include enough vitamins and minerals in your diet, especially iron and vitamin B12.
Frequently asked questions about ulcers on the tongue
How long do the ulcers take to go away?
Generally, ulcers on the tongue clear up within 7 to 10 days without needing treatment. If they persist beyond that, it’s important to seek medical help.
Can they be signs of a more serious problem?
Although most ulcers are harmless, if they’re recurrent, very large or come with other symptoms such as weight loss or fatigue, they could be a sign of a systemic problem or a more serious disease.
Conclusion: looking after your tongue for better oral health
Mouth ulcers on the tongue are annoying, but they’re usually nothing to worry about. With the right care and some preventive measures, you can stop them appearing or treat them effectively. If you have doubts or need personalised guidance, don’t hesitate to ask us. Your oral health is our priority!
