Aphthous Ulcer

Definition

Aphthous ulcer are the very common type of mouth ulcer. Typically, they are a shallow ulcer. They found in mouth with a white or yellow colour surrounded by a reddish border. This ulcer is seen in an individual with AIDS and is located in front and just below the bottom teeth.

The most common type of an aphthous ulcer is

1. Minor aphthous ulcers
2. Major aphthous ulcers
3. Pinpoint aphthous ulcers

Aphthous ulcer is mostly occur between the ages of 10 and 40. Size of apthous ulcer may vary from a millimetre or less in diameter to several centimetres. It is often painful.

Causes

Aphthous ulcers are sometimes caused by iron deficiency. They may also cause by the deficiency of Vitamin-B. Some drugs, such as nicorandil, have been linked with mouth ulcers. From ayurvedic point of view, people with high pitta in their saliva will have sharp teeth because the crown of the tooth becomes eroded. This can lead to repeated sores. If the smokers stops there smoking then the chance of aphthous ulcer may increase. They may also develop in response to a mouth injury such as dental procedures or aggressive tooth cleaning.

Symptoms

Some mouth ulcers may begin with a burning sensation in the mouth. In a few days, they often progress to form a red spot or bump, followed by an open ulcer. Sometimes this takes a little bit longer, depending on the cause of the ulcer.

Aphthous ulcers are found in the mouth with a various sizes. It is manly occur on the inner surface of the cheeks and lips, on the tongue, and the soft palate. Some people get aphthous ulcers two or three times per year, while others develop lesions continually one after another.

Aphthous ulcers are usually painful and can make eating and drinking certain foods/beverages difficult.

Treatment

Corticosteroid creams and gels are the most commonly used treatments for aphthous ulcers. These topical treatments calm the activity of the immune system, which is believed to be responsible for the ulcers, at the site where the aphthous ulcer has developed. Aphthous ulcers may also treated with steroid ointments, which dampen down the inflammation and allow the body's natural healing processes to take place. Topical or oral corticosteroids are rarely used, but they may reduce inflammation. Dexamethasone suspension may be given with instructions to rinse the mouth and spit it out; or dexamethasone, prednisone, or other corticosteroid may be given systemically (in a pill or injection, for example).