Different types of stomatitis
There are two main types of stomatitis:
-Canker sores
These are also known as aphthous ulcers and are part of the most common cause of stomatitis. The sores are pale white or yellowish in color with a red outer ring.
Canker sores can develop singly or in a cluster and usually occur on the inside of the lips or cheek, or on the tongue.
Canker sores lead to acute, temporary pain. In minor cases, which are the most usual, the ulcers heal within 4-14 days. In more severe cases, which account for about 1 in 10 of all cases of stomatitis, the sores can last up to 6 weeks.
Anyone can get canker sores, although women and people in their teens and 20s are more likely to experience them. They can run in families but are not contagious.
- Cold sores
Cold sores are small, painful, fluid-filled sores that usually occur on or around the lips near the edge of the mouth. Caused by the herpes virus (HSV), the condition is also known as herpes stomatitis.
A person may experience a tingling or burning sensation before the sore appears, as well as tenderness. Cold sores dry up and crust over with a yellow-colored scab.
Cold sores tend to last for around 5-7 days and can keep coming back. They are also very contagious.
Stomatitis can be broken down into different categories, depending on which area of the mouth is affected:
- cheilitis - inflammation of the lips and around the mouth
- glossitis - inflammation of the tongue
- gingivitis - inflammation of the gums
- pharyngitis - inflammation of the back of the mouth
--Causes--
Stomatitis can be caused by a variety of different factors, which may overlap with each other at the same time. Often it will be due to injury, infection, allergy, or skin disease.
young girl with a toothache
Biting the inside of the cheek or lip can cause stomatitis to occur.
The most common causes are:
trauma from ill-fitting dentures or braces, biting the inside of the cheek, tongue, or lip, and surgery
chemotherapy treatment for cancer
viral infection, such as herpes
yeast infection, such as thrush
any condition associated with xerostomia, or dry mouth
smoking or chewing tobacco
Other examples include:
bacterial infections
sexually transmitted infections
weakened or deficient immune system
irritation from strong chemicals
stress
certain diseases, including Behcet's disease, Crohn's disease, and lupus
medications, including sulfa drugs, anti-epileptics, and some antibiotics
nutritional deficiencies
allergic reactions
burns caused by hot food and drink
It is important to identify the cause of stomatitis in order to treat it properly.
-- Treatment --
Treatment for stomatitis will depend on the cause. Treating the root cause is important for stomatitis caused by the following:
- - Allergy: If caused by an allergic reaction, then the doctor will try to identify what the allergy is and look to eliminate its effects.
- Infection: Stomatitis caused by an infection may require specialized treatment and medications depending on what the infection is.
- Disease: If a specific disease causes stomatitis, a doctor will aim to identify this and treat it.
- Nutritional deficiency: A doctor can identify and address nutritional problems with medication or diet.
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