What Are Mouth Ulcers (Aphthae) and What Causes Them?
What is an aphthous ulcer?
Aphthous ulcers are small, painful lesions on the lining of the mouth. They usually start with an injury to the cells of the oral mucosa, which may be caused by eating, trauma or immune system reactions. The injured area is surrounded by white blood cells to fight inflammation and infection, and an exaggerated local reaction during healing leads to the ulcer, which can cause pain and discomfort in the mouth.
What causes aphthous ulcers?
They can be caused by trauma to the delicate tissues of the mouth, a weakened immune system, vitamin deficiencies, genetic predisposition and hormonal changes. Injuries caused by hard or sharp foods can trigger them. People with a weakened immune system or a genetic predisposition may be at higher risk. Vitamin and mineral deficiencies, especially of B vitamins, iron and zinc, can increase the formation of aphthous ulcers.