Mouth ulcers

Mouth ulcers usually heal within 2 weeks. To help ease the pain and speed up the healing process, avoid spicy, salty or crunchy foods.

For severe, persistent or infected mouth ulcers, a GP or dentist may prescribe medicines such as a steroid spray, steroid tablets or painkilling gel.

Mouth ulcers usually appear inside the mouth, on the cheeks or lips. You may have more than 1 ulcer at a time, and they can change in size.

Most single mouth ulcers are caused by things that are avoidable, such as biting the inside of your cheek, rough fillings or a sharp tooth.

Mouth ulcers are common and should clear up on their own within a week or 2. But see a GP or dentist if a mouth ulcer lasts longer than 3 weeks.