Mouth Ulcer in Kids: How To Treat Mouth Ulcer In Children?

Mouth ulcers are not just painful, but they can also be incredibly frustrating for children who are trying to eat and speak comfortably. 

As a parent, it's tough to see your child in discomfort and unable to enjoy their favourite foods. ​

Fortunately, there are effective remedies that can help alleviate the pain and promote the healing of these pesky sores. 

We have some tried-and-true remedies that will have your child feeling better in no time, whether you're dealing with sporadic mouth ulcers or persistent ones.

What Are Mouth Ulcers in Children?

Mouth ulcers are tiny, painful lesions that form inside the mouth. They are often referred to as canker sores or aphthous ulcers. 

They can develop on the lips, tongue, gums, inner cheeks, and mouth roof.

Mouth ulcers in children are common and typically not harmful. Although they can happen at any age, children between the ages of 10 and 19 seem to be particularly susceptible.

The exact cause of mouth ulcers is not always clear, but they can be triggered by a variety of factors, including:

• Injury to the mouth
• Stress or anxiety
• Viral or bacterial infections
• Food allergies or sensitivities
• Hormonal changes
• Vitamin deficiencies

Symptoms of mouth ulcers in children may include:

• Small, round or oval sores in the mouth
• Redness or swelling around the sores
• Pain or discomfort when eating, drinking, or speaking
• Fever, in some cases 

Causes of Mouth Ulcers in Kids

Mouth ulcers in children can have several causes, including:

1. Viral Infections:

• Common viruses like the herpes simplex virus and varicella-zoster virus are leading causes of mouth ulcers in kids.

• Other viruses such as Coxsackie, cytomegalovirus, and Epstein-Barr virus can also trigger ulcers.

2. Bacterial Infections:

• Bacteria like Streptococcus mutans and Helicobacter pylori can lead to ulcers in the mouth.

3. Fungal Infections:

• In rare cases, fungal infections such as oral candidiasis (thrush) may be responsible for mouth ulcers.

4. Medications:

• Some medications, including antibiotics, NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), and chemotherapy treatments, may cause mouth ulcers as a side effect.

5. Autoimmune Conditions:

• Conditions like Crohn’s disease or Behçet’s disease can result in recurring mouth ulcers.

6. Other Medical Conditions:

• Mouth ulcers can sometimes indicate underlying issues such as celiac disease or nutritional deficiencies (e.g., lack of vitamins).

Symptoms of Mouth Ulcers in Children

You may notice that your child complains of pain when they eat or drink if they have a mouth ulcer.

 A little white or red sore on the inside of their cheek, gums, or lip will be how the ulcer will appear to them. 

Your child may occasionally develop many ulcers at once. Children's mouth ulcer symptoms might also include the following:

• Bad breath
• Difficulty swallowing
• Drooling
• Fever
• Loss of appetite
• ​Swollen lymph nodes 

Diagnosing Mouth Ulcers in Kids

A mouth ulcer in a child can hurt and make eating and drinking challenging. Mouth ulcers in children can be brought on by a variety of conditions, such as viral infections, allergies, and stress. 

Even though the majority of mouth ulcers will go away on their own in a week or two, certain natural therapies can hasten recovery and lessen your child's discomfort.

Your child's doctor would probably inquire about their symptoms and medical background to identify a mouth ulcer in them. Additionally, they could examine the mouth ulcer physically.

They may request a blood test occasionally to rule out other conditions. If your child has a mouth ulcer that doesn't heal within two weeks or seems to be getting worse, make an appointment with their doctor. 

Treatments for Mouth Ulcers in Children

Mouth ulcers in children can be painful, but there are ways to provide relief:

• Ice Chips or Popsicles:

• Sucking on these helps numb the area and reduce inflammation.

• Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers:

• Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help ease the pain.

• Topical Ointments:

• Applying ointments like calendula, tea tree oil, or chamomile cream can soothe the ulcer and speed up healing.

Home Remedies for Mouth Ulcers in Kids

Several natural remedies can help ease the pain and discomfort of mouth ulcers in children:

• Salt Water Rinse:

• Mix 1 teaspoon of salt with 1 cup of warm water and have your child gently gargle for 30 seconds, then spit it out. This can be repeated throughout the day to soothe the area and speed up healing.

• Baking Soda Paste:

• Create a paste with baking soda and water, apply it directly to the ulcer, and leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing. This can be done several times a day.

• Popsicles or Ice Chips:

• These can help numb the pain and reduce discomfort, especially if your child is old enough to eat them safely.

• Pain Relievers:

• Over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help manage pain.

Prevention Tips For Reducing the Risk of Developing Mouth Ulcers in Children

To reduce your child’s risk of developing mouth ulcers, consider these steps:

• Maintain Good Oral Hygiene:

• Ensure your child brushes their teeth at least twice a day and flosses regularly to remove food particles and bacteria that can cause infections.

• Balanced Diet:

• Encourage a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to strengthen their immune system and promote oral health.

• Healthy Habits:

• Teach them not to share cups or utensils, avoid picking at their teeth or lips, and rinse their mouth after meals to prevent irritation.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

It is crucial to get medical attention for your child if mouth ulcers don't go away after a few days. Mouth ulcers may occasionally be a symptom of a more serious ailment. A doctor will be able to identify whether your child's mouth ulcers are serious and offer the right care.

Children's mouth ulcers can be excruciatingly painful and uncomfortable. Fortunately, there are several straightforward treatments you may employ to assist your child in better controlling mouth ulcers. 

You should quickly notice an improvement in your child's mouth ulcer symptoms if you use these treatments daily. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can A Child Get Mouth Ulcers?

Yes, children can get mouth ulcers, although they are more common in older children and teenagers than in younger children

How To Treat A Mouth Ulcer In A Child?

To treat a mouth ulcer in a child, you can:

• Rinse the mouth with warm salt water.
• Apply a topical numbing gel or mouthwash.
• Give over-the-counter pain medication like acetaminophen or ibuprofen (if recommended by a healthcare professional).
• Encourage the child to drink plenty of fluids and eat soft, cool foods.
• Avoid acidic or spicy foods that may irritate the ulcer.

If the ulcer persists or is particularly severe, consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and treatment.

What Causes Children's Mouth Ulcers?

Mouth ulcers in children can be caused by a variety of factors, including viral infections, injury or trauma to the mouth, stress, certain foods, and underlying medical conditions such as celiac disease or Crohn's disease.

Can a low immune system cause mouth sores?

Yes, having a weak immune system makes it simpler for germs and viruses to infect the mouth and produce ulcers. Additionally, mouth ulcers can be brought on by certain medical diseases that impair immunity.

Is mouth ulcer caused by low iron?

In some situations, mouth ulcers can also be brought on by low iron levels. Mouth sores may appear as a result of iron deficiency anaemia, a disorder that develops when the body lacks adequate iron. 

However, there are numerous other potential causes of mouth ulcers, so it's crucial to speak with a healthcare provider for a precise diagnosis and the best course of action.

Do mouth ulcers go away naturally?

Yes, oral ulcers typically heal on their own in 7–10 days without any medical intervention. However, depending on the ulcer's size, location, and underlying reason, the recovery period may differ.

It is advised to stay away from spicy and acidic meals while waiting for the ulcers to be cured because they can aggravate the ulcers and make them more painful.

Acetaminophen and ibuprofen, two over-the-counter painkillers, can also aid in reducing discomfort and inflammation.

It is advised to speak with a healthcare provider to identify the underlying reason and the best course of action if the ulcers are persistent, recurrent, or come with accompanying symptoms like fever.