Mouth ulcers
Overview
Mouth ulcers usually heal within 2 weeks. To help ease the pain and speed up the healing process, avoid spicy, salty and 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.
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.
Page last reviewed: 11/03/2024
Next review due: 11/03/2027