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Mouth ulcers in children, although a common occurrence, can be distressing. These ulcers are usually small but painful. They develop inside the mouth and can affect a child's daily activities. The utter discomfort causes irritability in children. They may even start to lose focus and become reluctant to eat or drink. Some dire conditions may also affect their social skills and self-esteem.
Understanding the nature of mouth ulcers, their causes, and their potential impact is essential to providing the necessary care and support. The most effective mouth ulcer treatment is its prevention. You can easily implement certain simple measures to prevent them. So, keep reading to know more!
Synopsis
Understanding Mouth Ulcers in Children
Mouth ulcers are typically round or oval lesions. They usually occur with a white or yellowish centre and a red border. These bumps can develop inside the mouth, on the gums, or on the tongue. The 3 main types of mouth ulcers are:
- Minor Ulcers: Most common, small in size, and usually heal within 7-14 days without scarring.
- Major Ulcers: Larger and deeper, more painful, may take several weeks to heal, and may leave scars.
- Herpetiform Ulcers: Clusters of numerous small sores that can merge to form a larger ulcer.
Doctors recommend a suitable treatment plan depending on the specific ulcer type.
What Are the Causes of Mouth Ulcers?
The following are the main causes of mouth ulcers:
- Accidental biting
- Mouth burn
- Rubbing due to dental braces
- Injury
- Nutritional deficiency
- Low vitamin levels
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Viral infection (diseases in hand, mouth, or foot, cold sores, etc.)
- Sensitivity to certain food items, especially the spicy or acidic ones. They may disturb the sensitive mucous membranes in your child’s mouth, causing an ulcer.
What Are the Symptoms of Mouth Ulcer?
In order to understand how to stop mouth ulcers, you need first to understand the symptoms they can show. If your child shares irritation in their mouth, check its inner lining. You can also examine the surface of their tongue or gum. Sometimes, they may even refuse to have food because of the pain or discomfort. In case of an infection caused by a mouth ulcer, they may have a fever. If the ulcer is severe, the symptoms may get serious. These generally include:
- Stomach pain
- Weight loss
- Unexplained fever
- Stiffness in the neck
- Tiredness
- Mucus or blood in stool
- Anal ulcers.
In such cases, you must immediately consult paediatrician.
Prevention Methods for Mouth Ulcers in Children
According to expert paediatricians, taking some basic measures can help you prevent mouth ulcers.
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Oral Hygiene - Make your child realise the necessity of brushing twice a day and flossing every day. This will help remove plaque and bacteria, thus promoting a healthy oral environment. You can choose age-appropriate oral products so that they can enjoy the process more. Get rid of those boring brushes, and bring in some child-like soft bristled brushes. Take the help of their paediatrician to educate them.
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Healthy Diet - Limit their sugary snacks and acidic foods to reduce the risk of mouth ulcers. Foods that are rich in vitamin C, B12, iron, and folate can keep their oral tissues healthy. Encourage them to have more fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.
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Hydration - Proper hydration goes a long way. Water can help rinse the bacteria and food particles stuck in between teeth. Maintaining a moist environment in the mouth can stop ulcers.
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Regular Dental Check-ups - For the most effective mouth ulcer treatment and prevention, routine dental check-ups are important. Professionals can easily identify the issues and guide you towards maintaining optimal oral health. Allow your child to have a positive relationship with their dentist so that they can be at ease during their appointments.
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Over-the-counter treatments - Gels or creams may come in handy to treat mouth ulcers. These ointments usually contain benzocaine-like ingredients that can relieve your child from pain or discomfort. However, seek professional advice before incorporating this method on your own.
If you notice that the mouth ulcer is not cured in 1-2 weeks, or it is a recurrent issue, or they are showing severe symptoms, you can immediately consult the best paediatricians in Hebbal
Keep track of the potential triggers that are causing these mouth ulcers in your child. Recognising this pattern will help you develop better prevention methods. An additional tip is not to stress them out over little things and to encourage mindfulness from early childhood.
FAQ's
Vitamin B, folate, or iron deficiency can cause mouth ulcers in children.
In most cases, mouth ulcers heal without requiring any treatment within a fortnight. However, if your child is experiencing pain due to the ulcers can either opt for over-the-counter medications or follow home remedies. These may include rinsing their mouth with a mild saltwater solution. But if the pain worsens, consult your doctor.
When your child is suffering with mouth ulcers it is recommended to give them soft, bland, and creamy foods such as pudding, yoghurt or curd, cream-based soups, porridge, etc., which are high in calories and proteins.
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