What is Aphthous Ulcer?
April 30th, 2010 - No Comments - Category: Common Dental Problems
Aphthous ulcer is a typical form of oral ulcer, it is formed as an open sore by breaking the mucous membrane. Usually these sores are seen inside your mouth and upper throat. One more problem with this ulcer is, it is recurrent. Aphthous Ulcers are classified in to three types and last anywhere between 3 or 4 days to several weeks. Around 40% of people having recurrent aphthous ulcer problem have family history.
Classifications of Aphthous Ulcers
Aphthous ulcer is classified based on the lesion’s diameter
Minor Aphthous Ulcers
- In minor ulceration, lesion size will be between 0.1 in to 0.4 in (3mm to 10mm)
- It will look like an erythematous halo in grayish or yellowish color.
- These sores are extremely painful, with general swelling
- They last maximum for a week, and usually do not leave any scar.
Major Aphthous Ulcers
- They resemble like the minor ulcerations, but the size of lesion will be more than 10 mm
- Usually form on the non-keratinizing oral surfaces
- They are extremely painful, especially while eating hot or spice food
- They last more than one month, they most leave a scar after healing
- These ulcerations develop after puberty and are frequently recurrent
Herpetiform Ulcerations
- Most severe form of aphthous ulcers
- Mostly seen in females, especially during adulthood
- Numerous small lesions of 1-3 mm are formed as clusters
- They take around a month to heal without any scars.
- Palliative treatment is always necessary for the cure
Non-prescription Treatment for Aphthous Ulcer
- Protecting the wounds from further physical trauma, this can be done using a topical ointment and careful brushing
- Temporary changes in your diet, remove all chemical irritants like acidic foods and spices
- Speed the healing process, using natural remedies like licorice root and lysine supplements
- Mouthwashes and gentle toothpastes can be used
Prescription Treatment for Aphthous Ulcer
- Corticosteroid preparations are used to control the symptoms
- Certain laser treatments are available from a dentist to reduce the spread of these ulcers
- Antiviral medication can be used to reduce further increase of the lesion
- New medication called Debacterol, can be used to reduce pain and the effects of aphthous ulcer
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