Mouth ulcer on gum

A sore on the gum may be a traumatic ulcer, a canker sore, irritation from an appliance, or another lesion, so its appearance and duration matter.

An ulcer is a break in the lining of the mouth. A sharp tooth, rough filling, toothbrush injury, or orthodontic component can repeatedly rub the gum; other ulcers arise without a local injury. A clinician should assess a sore that does not heal or keeps returning.

Rinse gently with salt water, choose soft foods, avoid spicy or acidic foods and tobacco, and use a soft toothbrush around the area. Do not burn the ulcer with chemicals or scrape it; dental wax can cover a rubbing bracket or sharp edge until it is checked.

Seek dental or medical care if the ulcer lasts beyond two weeks, enlarges, bleeds easily, becomes very painful, or is accompanied by fever, swollen neck glands, weight loss, or difficulty swallowing. Facial swelling or breathing difficulty is urgent.

Ask what features identify the lesion, whether a tooth or appliance is causing trauma, and whether it needs treatment or testing. Ask what symptom relief is suitable for your age, medicines, and health conditions.