Mouth ulcers are a condition that causes severe burning and pain in the mouth and tongue when eating or drinking water. Scientifically, they are called Aphthous Ulcers. They appear as small white or yellow blisters with red borders. Mouth ulcers are not only caused by poor oral hygiene, but are also a symptom of many other changes in the body. Here are the 5 main scientific reasons behind this:
Nutritional Deficiencies: The most important scientific reason for persistent mouth ulcers is nutritional deficiency. Especially when vitamin B12, folic acid, iron, and zinc are lacking in the body, the immune system of the cells in the mouth decreases and they easily become inflamed. Vegetarians are more likely to be deficient in vitamin B12.
Stomach Issues: There is a direct link between our digestive system and oral health. People with chronic constipation, acidity, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have increased body heat, which affects the mucous membrane inside the mouth and causes ulcers.
Stress & Insomnia: When there is severe mental stress, the body produces the hormone cortisol, which weakens the body’s natural immune system. Along with this, people who do not get enough sleep also experience hormonal imbalances in the body, causing inflammation in the soft skin inside the mouth and causing mouth ulcers.
Minor injuries in the mouth (Mechanical Trauma): Accidental rubbing of the toothbrush against the walls of the mouth while brushing, accidental contact with the cheek or tongue while chewing food, and rubbing against the sharp edges of dentures can cause small scratches on the skin of the mouth. When bacteria in the mouth act on these wounds, it turns into a large mouth ulcer.
Chemicals in toothpastes and acidic foods: Many of the toothpastes we use contain a chemical called Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), which is added to soften ghee. This can dry out the skin inside the mouth in some people and cause ulcers. Along with this, excessive consumption of acidic fruits like sour, tamarind, pickles, chocolates, pineapple, and lemon can also cause this.
