...

NYC’s Leading Integrative Health Care Center

Get Hormone eBook
Get Price Quote
Make an Appointment
Make an Appointment

What causes mouth ulcers?

Home / Condition

What causes mouth ulcers?

Introduction: Why Mouth Ulcers Need a New Approach

Mouth ulcers, also known as canker sores, are a common and painful condition that can interfere with daily life. At Patients Medical in New York City, we focus on understanding the root causes of your mouth ulcers rather than merely treating the symptoms. Our integrative approach combines conventional medicine with natural therapies to address underlying factors like stress, immune imbalance, and nutritional deficiencies that contribute to mouth ulcers.

We believe in treating the whole person, not just the ulcer, for long-term healing and prevention.

What Are Mouth Ulcers?

Mouth ulcers are small, painful lesions that develop inside the mouth, typically on the gums, tongue, or inner lips. Though they can be annoying and uncomfortable, they are usually not dangerous. However, frequent or severe mouth ulcers can signal an underlying health issue.

There are two main types of mouth ulcers:

  • Minor ulcers: These are small, round or oval-shaped ulcers that usually heal within a week or two.
  • Major ulcers: These are larger and deeper than minor ulcers, often taking longer to heal and may leave scars.

Herpetiform ulcers: These are clusters of smaller ulcers that can coalesce into larger ones, often appearing in the back of the mouth.

Common Symptoms of Mouth Ulcers

Mouth ulcers can be identified by the following symptoms:

  • Painful, round or oval sores inside the mouth
  • Red borders around the ulcers
  • Swelling and tenderness in the affected area
  • Difficulty eating or speaking due to pain
  • Burning sensation before the ulcer appears
  • Occasionally fever (in severe cases)

If you experience recurring or severe mouth ulcers, it may be time to investigate potential underlying causes.

Root Causes: Why Did You Develop Mouth Ulcers?

Functional medicine aims to uncover the root causes of mouth ulcers, focusing on factors that may contribute to their frequent occurrence or severity. These common triggers include:

  • Nutritional Deficiencies: Lack of vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B12, iron, folate, and zinc can contribute to the development of mouth ulcers.
  • Stress: Emotional and physical stress can weaken the immune system and lead to the formation of mouth ulcers.
  • Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in hormones, especially during menstruation or pregnancy, can make some individuals more prone to mouth ulcers.
  • Immune System Dysfunction: Autoimmune conditions such as celiac disease or Crohn’s disease can trigger mouth ulcers.
  • Trauma: Accidentally biting the inside of the cheek or using a rough toothbrush can lead to mouth ulcers.
  • Food Sensitivities: Certain foods, such as acidic fruits, spicy foods, and nuts, can irritate the mouth and lead to ulcers.
  • Medications: Certain medications, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and beta-blockers, can make mouth ulcers more likely.

Diagnostic Testing We Use

To understand the underlying causes of your mouth ulcers, we utilize advanced diagnostic tests, including:

Nutritional testing for vitamin and mineral deficiencies (B12, iron, zinc, folate)

Allergy testing to identify food sensitivities or environmental allergens

Celiac disease panel to rule out gluten intolerance

Autoimmune disease screening (for conditions like lupus or Crohn's)

Hormonal panels to evaluate imbalances that may contribute to ulcer formation

Saliva testing to assess the presence of oral pathogens or infections

Integrative Treatments for Mouth Ulcers

Nutritional Therapy

We offer personalized nutrition plans that focus on healing and prevention of mouth ulcers by addressing any deficiencies. These plans may include:

  • Increased intake of B vitamins, zinc, and iron through food and supplements
  • Elimination of acidic or irritating foods, such as citrus and spicy foods
  • Anti-inflammatory diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish and flax seeds) to reduce ulcer pain and inflammation
  • Probiotic-rich foods (yogurt, kefir, kimchi) to promote gut health, which can support the immune system

Herbal & Nutraceuticals

Our team recommends evidence-based supplements to help manage and prevent mouth ulcers. Some of the most effective options include:

  • Vitamin B12 (promotes mucosal healing)
  • Zinc lozenges (help to heal and prevent new ulcers)
  • Licorice root (soothing for mucous membranes)
  • Aloe vera gel (applied topically to reduce irritation and inflammation)
  • Cabbage juice (natural anti-inflammatory properties)

These supplements are carefully dosed and monitored by a physician to ensure safety and efficacy.

Stress Reduction

Stress is a major contributor to mouth ulcers, and we offer several therapies to help reduce stress levels and promote overall well-being:

  • Meditation and mindfulness techniques to reduce emotional stress
  • Acupuncture for balancing the body’s energy and reducing stress
  • Adaptogenic herbs, such as Ashwagandha, to help the body cope with physical stress

Immune Support

For individuals with frequent mouth ulcers due to immune dysfunction, we offer immune-support therapies such as:

  • Vitamin D supplementation to support immune health
  • Gut health protocols to improve digestion and support the immune system
  • Probiotics to promote healthy gut flora and reduce systemic inflammation

Hormonal Balancing

If hormonal fluctuations are contributing to your mouth ulcers, we address these imbalances through:

  • Bioidentical hormone therapy for women experiencing ulcers related to menstrual cycles or menopause
  • Thyroid optimization to regulate metabolic function and improve immune system health

Real Case Study: Jane’s Journey to Relief

Jane, 42, had been suffering from recurring mouth ulcers for over a year. Despite over-the-counter treatments, her ulcers kept coming back, especially around her period. After a thorough evaluation, we discovered that she was deficient in vitamin B12 and had high levels of stress.

We customized a treatment plan that included:

  • Vitamin B12 supplements to address the deficiency
  • Magnesium and ashwagandha to reduce stress
  • Dietary adjustments, including anti-inflammatory foods and elimination of acidic foods

After two months, Jane reported a significant decrease in ulcer frequency, and her oral health improved. She now experiences only occasional discomfort during particularly stressful times.

Consult Now
Real Case Study: Jane’s Journey to Relief

Testimonials

“I was tired of dealing with mouth ulcers all the time. The team at Patients Medical helped me balance my diet and manage my stress, and now I rarely get them.”
– T.R., 38New York
“After years of suffering, I finally found relief. The vitamins and stress management techniques worked wonders!”
– A.S., 45Brooklyn
“I never knew my ulcers were related to my hormone levels. The hormone balancing treatment made a huge difference.”
– C.M., 32Queens
“I was always embarrassed by my mouth ulcers. Now, with the right treatment, I feel more confident and pain-free.”
– S.G., 50Manhattan
“Patients Medical helped me identify food sensitivities that were causing my mouth ulcers. I feel so much better now!”
– L.P., 28Staten Island

Explore Our Blog For More Insights

Frequently Asked Questions

Mouth ulcers can be caused by nutritional deficiencies, stress, hormonal changes, autoimmune conditions, and trauma to the mouth.

Prevention involves maintaining good oral hygiene, avoiding irritating foods, and managing stress and nutrient deficiencies.

No, mouth ulcers are not contagious and cannot be spread from person to person.

Yes, emotional and physical stress can weaken the immune system, making you more prone to developing mouth ulcers.

Most mouth ulcers heal within 1-2 weeks. However, more severe ulcers may take longer to heal.

Frequent or severe mouth ulcers may indicate an underlying issue, such as autoimmune diseases or nutrient deficiencies. It’s important to consult a doctor for persistent symptoms.

Yes, over-the-counter treatments, dietary changes, and stress management techniques can help reduce symptoms.

Avoid acidic foods like citrus, spicy foods, and sharp-textured foods that can irritate the ulcers.

Yes, hormonal fluctuations (especially during menstruation) can trigger or worsen mouth ulcers in some individuals.

Healing naturally involves addressing the root causes, including vitamin supplementation, stress management, and dietary adjustments.

Begin Your Journey with Patients Medical

Patients Medical specializes in gently helping the patient identify the root cause of their medical issues and then assist them to recover from their problems to help them move forward to good health.

Request your consultation today!

To schedule an in person on Tele-medicine appointment, please call our office at (212) 794-8800 or email us at info@PatientsMedical.com We look forward to hearing from you

Our medical center in New York City.

Patients Medical PC
1148 Fifth Avenue, Suite 1B New York, NY 10128

Make an Appointment

    Important Links

    Useful Links

    Useful Links

    Connect with Us

    Facebook Twitter Youtube Pinterest Instagram

    Copyright © 2025 Patients Medical. All Rights Reserved.

    All information presented in this website is intended for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of rendering medical advice. Statements made on this website have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The information contained herein is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Patients Medical.

    This website may convey general information related to medical conditions, their research, testing, and treatment, and other health care topics. Any such information is provided for informational purposes only. You should always consult with a doctor or other health care professional for medical advice or information about diagnosis and treatment.
    Seraphinite AcceleratorOptimized by Seraphinite Accelerator
    Turns on site high speed to be attractive for people and search engines.