Aphthous Ulcer

Aphthous Ulcers

I. Definition:

Aphthous ulcers are single or multiple ulcers of the inside of the mouth that tend to recur. The lesions may affect patients at any age although the peak occurrence is in young adults. The ulcers are shallow and are often accompanied by soreness and pain. The ulcers usually last one to two weeks.

II. Cause:

Although there is no known cause for these lesions it is believed that certain foods, fever or mental stress may precede the outbreak of these lesions.
Aphthous ulcers are sometimes caused by iron deficiency.
Aphthous ulcers may also be caused by a Vitamin-B deficiency.
The detergents found in many types of toothpaste can cause aphthous ulcers in some individuals. Conventional toothpaste contains irritating detergents (sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium lauroyl sarcosinate), which have been shown to greatly increase the occurrence of mouth sores.

III. Treatment:

The ulcers will usually resolve in 10 to 14 days if left untreated.
Topical cortisone treatment applied to the ulcers several times a day may relieve the pain and shorten healing time.
Topical anesthetic gel applied to the ulcers will provide symptomatic relief and make it possible to eat without pain.
A multi-vitamin with iron should be taken every day to counteract any possible vitamin or iron deficiency.
A good toothpaste to use is Rembrandt, a toothpaste specially made for patients with aphthous ulcers. Rembrandt is available without a prescription at your local drug store.
Enamel Saver Toothpaste prevents aphthous ulcers. Call 877-718-0718 toll free to order Enamel Saver Toothpaste.

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