Mouth Ulcers, Aft and Cold Sores – When to Worry and How to Protect Your Oral Health

Many patients in Bursa come to Milim Dental Bursa worried about painful spots in their mouth: small white ulcers (aft), blisters on the lips (cold sores), or red irritated areas on the cheeks and tongue.

Most of these are minor issues that heal on their own, but sometimes they can signal something more serious or be made worse by poor oral health.

Common Types of Oral Lesions

Aphthous Ulcers (Aft)

Small, round or oval ulcers with a white or yellow centre and a red border.

Usually found on the inside of cheeks, lips or tongue.

Often painful when eating, drinking or brushing.

They are not contagious and usually heal within 7–14 days.

Cold Sores (Herpes Simplex)

Blister-like lesions, usually on the lips or just outside the mouth.

Caused by herpes simplex virus.

Contagious, especially when blisters are present.

Cold sores may recur in times of stress, illness or sun exposure.

Traumatic Ulcers

Caused by biting the cheek, sharp teeth, broken fillings or ill-fitting dentures.

Similar appearance to other ulcers but with a clear cause.

When to See a Dentist

You should visit Milim Dental Bursa if:

An ulcer does not heal within 10–14 days.

You have many ulcers at once or they appear very frequently.

You notice white or red patches that do not go away.

You have pain or difficulty swallowing.

As oral health specialists, we can distinguish between common harmless lesions and those that may require further investigation or referral.

Connection with General Oral Health

Ulcers and cold sores may not be directly caused by teeth, but poor oral health can make them more uncomfortable and slower to heal.

For example:

Rough edges of decayed teeth or broken fillings can constantly irritate an area.

Poor brushing and heavy plaque can increase inflammation and pain.

Badly fitting dentures can cause repeated trauma and ulcers.

Part of our treatment at Milim Dental Bursa is often to:

Smooth or repair sharp teeth and fillings (with fillings, polishing or crowns).

Check that dentures or appliances fit properly.

Provide guidance on gentle cleaning around sore areas.

Mouthwash, Oil Pulling and Home Remedies

Mild antiseptic mouthwashes may help reduce bacteria and provide some comfort, but strong alcohol-based products can sting. We often recommend gentle, alcohol-free rinses.

Oil pulling may feel soothing for some patients, but it does not treat the root cause of ulcers or viral infections. It should not replace professional assessment if lesions persist.

The Role of Nutrition and Systemic Health

Frequent mouth ulcers can sometimes be linked to:

Nutritional deficiencies (iron, B12, folate)

Hormonal changes

Stress and immune system variations

Gastrointestinal conditions

If we suspect a systemic cause, we will suggest seeing your physician or doing further tests.

Keeping Your Mouth Healthy During Outbreaks

While you have ulcers or cold sores:

Continue brushing carefully with a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste – stopping completely allows plaque to build up.

Avoid harsh or whitening toothpastes that may irritate.

Rinse with lukewarm salt water or a gentle mouthwash as recommended.

Use any prescribed gels or ointments exactly as instructed.

Remember, treating cavities with fillings, addressing gum disease, and completing needed root canal treatment all contribute to a healthier environment where your tissues can heal more easily.

At Milim Dental Bursa, our role is not only to repair teeth but to care for the overall health of your mouth – gums, tongue, lips and all soft tissues included.