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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 your 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 drive them away. 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 the tongue. The 3 main types of mouth ulcers are:
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Minor Ulcers: Most common, small in size, and usually heal within 7-14 days without scarring.
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Major Ulcers: Larger and deeper, more painful, may take several weeks to heal, and may leave scars.
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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.
Why Does My Child Develop Mouth Ulcers?
Mouth ulcers can be caused by various issues. Below are the most common mouth ulcers cause in children:
Consult our child care hospital in Bangalore if your child needs oral ulcer treatment.
Symptoms of Mouth Ulcer
In order to understand how to stop mouth ulcers, you need first to understand the symptoms your kid may show.
If your child shares pain & irritation in the mouth, check its inner lining. You can also examine the surface of the tongue or gum. Sometimes, children may even refuse to have food because of the pain or discomfort.
In case of an infection caused by a mouth ulcer, your kid may develop a fever.
If the ulcer is severe, the symptoms may get serious. These generally include:
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Stomach pain
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Weight loss
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Unexplained fever
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Stiffness in neck
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Tiredness
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Mucus or blood in stool
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Anal ulcers
In such cases, you must immediately consult a pediatrician in Bangalore and get your kid tested for a proper therapeutic plan.
Can I Prevent Mouth Ulcers in My Kid?
Yes, you certainly can take some basic measures to protect your kids from developing mouth ulcers. Below are a few ways to prevent mouth ulcers in children:
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Oral Hygiene
Make your child realise the necessity of brushing and flossing every day. Maintaining it twice a day will 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.
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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 prevention, routine dental check-up is 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 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, immediately consult your doctor.
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
No, mouth ulcers are not contagious.
You 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.
Mouth ulcers are usually very common and benign. However, if it is persistent and shows severe symptoms, it may indicate underlying health concerns. In that case, seek professional help.
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