Mouth ulcers can be very irritating and painful. These small but painful sores can make eating, drinking, and talking difficult. If your child keeps getting mouth ulcers, you may find yourself wondering why and what you can do about it. Let’s get into it in an understandable and, more importantly, actionable way. 

What Are Mouth Ulcers?

Mouth ulcers, also known as canker sores, are small sores that develop on the inside of the mouth, on the tongue, gums, or inner cheeks. They are not contagious, but they can be quite painful, particularly for children. Some ulcers completely heal in a few days, while others can last for weeks, causing discomfort with basic daily activities.

Why Does Your Child Keep Getting Mouth Ulcers?

While there isn’t always a single cause for recurrent mouth ulcers, triggers are not uncommon, including:

1. Nutritional Deficiencies – A lack of essential vitamins and minerals, particularly iron, vitamin B12, and folic acid, can make children more prone to ulcers.
2. Injuries in the Mouth – Accidentally biting the inside of the cheek, aggressive brushing, or irritation from braces can trigger ulcer formation.
3. Food Sensitivities – Some children develop ulcers after consuming acidic or spicy foods, like citrus fruits, tomatoes, or crisps.
4. Stress and Fatigue – Just like adults, kids can develop mouth ulcers due to stress, lack of sleep, or an overloaded school schedule.
5. Viral or Bacterial Infections – Certain viral infections, including hand, foot, and mouth disease or herpes simplex virus, can cause ulcers.
6. Underlying Medical Conditions – Conditions such as celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, or immune system disorders may contribute to frequent mouth ulcers.

How Can You Help Your Child?

If your child suffers from frequent mouth ulcers, here’s what you can do to ease their discomfort and reduce recurrence:

Home Remedies for Soothing Pain

• Saltwater Rinse – Rinsing with warm saltwater can help reduce inflammation and promote healing.
• Honey Application – Honey has antibacterial properties that can help ulcers heal faster. Apply a small amount directly to the sore.
• Cool & Soft Foods – Avoid spicy, acidic, or rough-textured foods. Opt for yogurt, smoothies, and soft fruits instead.
• Ice Cubes or Cold Milk – Sipping on cold milk or sucking on an ice cube can provide temporary relief.

When Should You See an ENT Doctor for Children?

While occasional ulcers are normal, frequent or severe cases might require medical attention. You should consider seeing an ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) specialist if:

• The ulcers keep returning frequently.
• They last longer than two weeks.
• Your child has difficulty eating or drinking due to pain.
• Fever, swollen lymph nodes, or rashes accompany the ulcers.
• Multiple ulcers are appearing at the same time.

An ENT doctor can assess underlying causes and recommend targeted treatments, such as dietary adjustments, medications, or tests for potential infections or immune-related conditions.

Mouth ulcers in children can be distressing, but understanding the triggers and taking preventive measures can make a world of difference. Simple lifestyle changes, proper oral hygiene, and a balanced diet can help keep ulcers at bay. However, if the problem persists, it’s always wise to consult an ENT doctor for children to rule out any underlying issues.

If your child has been struggling with recurrent mouth ulcers, Aurion’s expert ENT specialists are here to help. Book a consultation today and get the right care for your little one.