Sores in my mouth and gums

Mouth and gum sores can come from irritation, infection, inflammation, trauma, or another oral condition, so their appearance and duration matter.

Common triggers include biting, a sharp tooth or filling, hot food, dentures, canker-type ulcers, viral infection, and inflammation. A sore can also occur beside a tooth with a dental infection, which requires different treatment.

Rinse gently with plain water or a mild salt-water rinse, choose softer foods, and avoid tobacco, alcohol-containing rinses, and foods that sting. Do not scrape the lesion or place aspirin directly on it.

Seek dental care if a sore lasts beyond two weeks, returns often, enlarges, becomes firm, bleeds easily, or is accompanied by fever, neck swelling, difficulty opening the mouth, or difficulty swallowing. A spreading facial swelling is urgent.

Ask what the lesion most resembles, whether a tooth or appliance is rubbing it, and whether an examination or swab is appropriate. Ask how long to monitor it and which changes should prompt earlier review.