Persistent or recurrent mouth ulcers can be a source of significant discomfort and worry. While most mouth ulcers are harmless and resolve on their own, when mouth ulcers keep coming back, it's natural to wonder why. At Melbourne Oral Medicine and Facial Pain Centre, Dr. Suhaib Alqudah, a registered Oral Medicine Specialist, helps patients Australia-wide understand and manage these challenging conditions through secure video (telehealth) consultations.
One of the most common causes of recurrent mouth ulcers is Recurrent Aphthous Stomatitis (RAS), often simply called 'canker sores'. These are non-contagious, painful, shallow ulcers that typically appear as round or oval lesions with a white or yellow centre and a red border. They usually occur on the soft, non-keratinised tissues of the mouth, such as the inside of the lips and cheeks, the floor of the mouth, or the underside of the tongue. While the exact cause isn't fully understood, factors like minor injury, stress, certain foods, nutritional deficiencies (e.g., iron, B12, folate), and even genetic predisposition can trigger them. Most RAS ulcers heal within one to two weeks. However, if they are unusually large, extremely painful, take longer to heal, or are accompanied by other symptoms, it's a good idea to seek specialist advice.
Another common cause for persistent oral lesions, which can sometimes present as ulcers, is Oral Lichen Planus (OLP). This is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the mucous membranes inside your mouth. OLP can manifest in several ways: as white, lace-like patterns (reticular OLP), red, inflamed patches (erythematous OLP), or more severely, as open sores or ulcers (erosive OLP). These erosive forms can be quite painful and persistent. Dr. Alqudah holds a PhD in Oral Lichen Planus from the University of Melbourne, making him particularly experienced in diagnosing and managing this complex condition. While OLP is not contagious, it requires careful management due to its chronic nature and potential for discomfort. Any persistent white or red patches, or ulcers that don't heal, particularly if painful, should be evaluated by an Oral Medicine Specialist.
While many mouth ulcers are benign, certain signs warrant prompt professional attention. These 'red flags' include any ulcer that lasts longer than two to three weeks without healing, ulcers that are unusually large, deeply painful, or accompanied by fever, swollen glands, or other systemic symptoms affecting your body. Some persistent or recurrent oral ulcers can be a manifestation of underlying systemic conditions, such as autoimmune diseases, gastrointestinal disorders (e.g., Crohn's disease), or certain nutritional deficiencies. In rare cases, a persistent, non-healing ulcer, especially one that is firm to the touch, or appears as a lump, could indicate a more serious concern like oral cancer. This is particularly relevant for individuals with risk factors such as smoking or heavy alcohol consumption. An Oral Medicine Specialist can help differentiate between these possibilities and ensure appropriate investigation.
Understanding the cause of recurrent mouth ulcers is the first step towards effective management. Dr. Suhaib Alqudah at Melbourne Oral Medicine offers secure video consultations Australia-wide, providing convenient access to specialist care without the need for travel. During an online assessment for persistent mouth ulcers, Dr. Alqudah will conduct a thorough review of your medical history and symptoms, and visually assess the lesions via video. This allows for accurate triage, helping to distinguish between common, benign conditions and those that may require further investigation. Based on the assessment, he can provide reassurance, recommend specific blood tests, imaging, or, if necessary, arrange for a local biopsy or referral to another specialist. This comprehensive approach ensures you receive an accurate diagnosis and a tailored management plan, all from the comfort of your home.
You should be concerned if a mouth ulcer persists for more than two to three weeks without healing, is unusually painful, large, or if it is accompanied by other symptoms like fever, difficulty swallowing, or swollen lymph nodes. Any ulcer that feels firm to the touch or appears as a lump also warrants immediate attention.
Yes, stress is a known trigger for recurrent aphthous stomatitis (canker sores) in many individuals. While stress doesn't directly cause the ulcer, it can weaken the immune system or alter oral conditions, making one more susceptible to developing them.
An online consultation with Dr. Alqudah involves a secure video call where you discuss your symptoms and medical history. Dr. Alqudah will visually examine your mouth via the video link. He will then provide a specialist assessment, offering reassurance, guiding you on necessary investigations (like blood tests or local imaging), or arranging a biopsy if indicated. This allows for a comprehensive specialist opinion and care plan without needing to travel.
If you're experiencing persistent or recurrent mouth ulcers and are seeking clarity and expert care, we encourage you to get in touch. Dr. Suhaib Alqudah and the team at Melbourne Oral Medicine are here to provide specialist Oral Medicine consultations across Australia. Book a secure video consultation today to discuss your concerns and explore your treatment options.
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