What Are Tongue Ulcers?
Tongue ulcers, commonly referred to as canker sores on the tongue, occur when the surface of the tongue develops ulcerations or when the papillae (taste buds) become inflamed. While mouth ulcers are generally called stomatitis, tongue ulcers are specifically known as glossitis due to their location.
Studies suggest that approximately 20% of the global population experiences recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS), which includes tongue ulcers, at some point in their lives (Scully & Porter, 2021). These ulcers can be painful and may interfere with eating and speaking.
In this guide, we’ll explore how to get rid of tongue ulcers fast by first understanding their causes. Addressing the underlying reasons is key to effective treatment and prevention. Here are six common causes and corresponding treatment methods.
6 Common Causes of Tongue Ulcers and How to Treat Them
1. Eating Spicy or Irritating Foods
Consuming spicy, hard, or chewy foods can irritate the tongue, leading to ulcers. Hard foods, especially those that break into sharp pieces, can physically injure the tongue during chewing.
Solution: Avoid overly spicy or rough foods to prevent further irritation and allow healing.
2. Physical Trauma
Accidental biting of the tongue, talking while eating, or consuming very hot foods can cause injury. Sharp teeth, braces, or dental appliances (such as retainers) may continuously irritate the same area.
Solution: If braces or sharp teeth edges are causing persistent ulcers, a dental visit may be necessary to smooth the rough areas.
3. Nutritional Deficiencies
Deficiencies in vitamins and minerals can weaken the immune system and lead to frequent ulcers. Studies indicate that Vitamin B12, iron, and folic acid deficiencies are linked to recurrent mouth ulcers (Field et al., 2022).
Solution: Incorporate vitamin-rich foods or take supplements containing Vitamin A, C, B-complex, and iron to support oral health.
4. Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)
A dry mouth can accelerate bacterial growth, leading to oral infections and ulcers. Dehydration and certain medications (such as antihistamines or antidepressants) can contribute to dry mouth.
Solution: Stay hydrated by drinking water regularly. If persistent dry mouth occurs despite drinking enough fluids, it may indicate xerostomia, which requires a medical evaluation.
5. Weakened Immune System
The mouth is constantly exposed to bacteria and viruses, but the immune system usually protects against infections. Stress, fatigue, insomnia, and poor diet can weaken immunity, making ulcers more frequent.
Solution: Manage stress, get adequate rest, and maintain a healthy diet to support the immune system.
6. Underlying Medical Conditions
Chronic illnesses such as thyroid disorders, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and kidney disease can weaken immunity, making ulcers more likely. Even mild illnesses like the common cold, flu, or frequent digestive issues can contribute to tongue ulcers.
Solution: If ulcers recur frequently despite treatment, a medical evaluation is advised. Symptoms such as sore throat, acid reflux, nausea, or vomiting alongside ulcers may indicate a systemic condition requiring treatment.
How to Treat Tongue Ulcers Quickly
1. Over-the-Counter Medications (Albothyl)
- Albothyl, a commonly used topical medication, can disinfect the ulcer area and promote healing.
- Other antiseptic mouthwashes and pain-relief gels (like benzocaine or lidocaine-based products) can help reduce discomfort.
2. Professional Medical Treatment
- If ulcers persist for more than two weeks or recur frequently, visiting an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist or dentist is recommended.
- Doctors may prescribe oral steroids, antiviral medications, or vitamin supplements depending on the cause.
3. Home Remedies for Faster Healing
- Rinse with salt water to reduce bacteria and inflammation.
- Apply honey or coconut oil as natural antibacterial agents.
- Drink cold or lukewarm liquids to prevent further irritation.
- Avoid spicy, acidic, and hard foods to allow the ulcer to heal faster.
Preventing Tongue Ulcers
- Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing daily.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to prevent irritation.
- Clean your tongue to remove bacteria buildup (use a tongue scraper or toothbrush).
- Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals.
- Avoid unnecessary stress and get enough sleep to support immune function.
When to See a Doctor
While tongue ulcers often heal within a week, persistent or frequent recurrence may indicate an underlying health issue. Seek medical attention if:
- Ulcers last more than two weeks without improvement.
- Pain is severe and interferes with eating or speaking.
- Other symptoms like throat pain, nausea, fever, or swollen lymph nodes accompany the ulcers.
- Ulcers occur frequently despite lifestyle changes and treatment.
Health-Related Questions About Tongue Ulcers
1. How can I tell if my tongue ulcer is serious?
Most tongue ulcers heal on their own within a week. However, if an ulcer is large, extremely painful, or lasts longer than two weeks, it could indicate an underlying condition, such as an infection or even oral cancer. If you experience unexplained weight loss, difficulty swallowing, or persistent white or red patches, consult a healthcare provider immediately (Patton et al., 2022).
2. Are tongue ulcers contagious?
No, tongue ulcers (canker sores) are not contagious. They differ from cold sores, which are caused by the herpes simplex virus and can spread through direct contact. However, if your ulcer is due to an infection (such as hand, foot, and mouth disease or oral thrush), the underlying infection may be contagious.
3. Can stress cause tongue ulcers?
Yes, stress is a common trigger for tongue ulcers. High stress levels can weaken the immune system, making the body more susceptible to canker sores. Stress-related ulcers often appear during periods of emotional distress, lack of sleep, or after intense physical exertion. Practicing stress management techniques, such as meditation and regular exercise, may help reduce the frequency of ulcers (Turner et al., 2023).
Final Thoughts
Tongue ulcers are often harmless but can be painful and bothersome. While they usually heal on their own, persistent or frequent ulcers may indicate an underlying health problem that requires medical attention.
By identifying the cause, practicing good oral hygiene, and making lifestyle changes, you can prevent tongue ulcers and promote faster healing when they do occur. If symptoms persist, seek professional medical advice to rule out any serious conditions.
References
- Field, E. A., et al. (2022). Vitamin Deficiencies and Oral Ulcers: A Review. Journal of Oral Health Research.
- Patton, L. L., et al. (2022). Oral Ulcers: When to Worry. American Journal of Oral Medicine.
- Scully, C., & Porter, S. R. (2021). Recurrent Aphthous Stomatitis: Pathophysiology and Management. International Journal of Dentistry.
- Turner, M. D., et al. (2023). Stress and Its Impact on Oral Ulcer Formation. Journal of Psychosomatic Dentistry.