We’ve all experienced those small, painful sores inside a child’s mouth that can turn mealtimes into a struggle and make tooth brushing a challenge. While mouth ulcers are fairly common in children, how can you determine when they are harmless and when it’s necessary to visit an ENT doctor? If your child frequently complains of discomfort while eating or speaking, or if ulcers keep recurring, it’s worth pausing to understand what might be causing the issue. Let’s explore what causes these ulcers, when you should worry, and how an ENT specialist can help.
What Are Mouth Ulcers in Children?
Mouth ulcers, also known as canker sores, are small breaks or sores on the inside of the lips, cheeks, or tongue. They often appear white or yellow with a red border. While they may look alarming, most ulcers in children are not serious and clear up on their own within 7–10 days.
Common causes include:
- Minor injuries from biting the cheek or brushing too hard
- Stress or fatigue
- Nutritional deficiencies (especially vitamin B12, iron, or folate)
- Viral infections (such as hand, foot, and mouth disease)
- Food allergies or sensitivities
When Should You Be Concerned?
Most mouth ulcers in children are temporary. However, certain signs may suggest a more serious issue:
- Ulcers lasting longer than 2 weeks
- Recurring ulcers without clear triggers
- Pain severe enough to interfere with eating or drinking
- Ulcers accompanied by fever, swollen glands, or rash
- Signs of dehydration (dry lips, reduced urination, irritability)
In such cases, it’s wise to consult an ENT doctor, especially if the ulcers are part of a pattern of other ENT symptoms like sore throats or nasal congestion.
What Can an ENT Doctor Do?
An ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) specialist will assess whether the ulcers are part of a bigger issue. For instance, frequent mouth ulcers could point to:
- Chronic tonsillitis
- Viral infections like herpes simplex
- Oral thrush or bacterial infections
- Underlying immune conditions
They may recommend tests to rule out underlying conditions, offer soothing treatments, or guide you on dietary and hygiene habits that can prevent recurrence.
Helping Your Child Feel Better
While you wait for a diagnosis or treatment, some simple tips can help ease your child’s discomfort:
- Offer cold drinks, ice lollies, or smoothies
- Avoid acidic or spicy foods.
- Use a soft toothbrush.
- Rinse with salt water (if age-appropriate)
Final Thoughts
It’s easy to dismiss a mouth ulcer as “just one of those things,” but when they keep returning or seem unusually painful, it’s worth digging deeper. A quick visit to an ENT doctor can help put your mind at ease and your child on the path to feeling better.
Wondering if your child’s mouth ulcers need expert attention? Book an appointment with Aurion Today!
