Oral ulcer; Stomatitis - ulcerative; Ulcer - mouth

Symptoms vary and depend on the specific cause of the mouth ulcer. In general, symptoms may include:

• Open sores in the mouth
• Pain or discomfort in the mouth

A health care provider or dentist usually diagnoses the type of mouth ulcer, based on its appearance and location. Blood tests or a biopsy of the ulcer may be needed to confirm the cause.

Images

Lichen planus on the oral mucosa

Mouth sores

Oral thrush

Canker sore (aphthous ulcer)

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Mouth ulcers Overview

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Mouth ulcers Treatment

Review Date: 02/17/2011
Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)