How to treat canker sores on the tongue and mouth?

Question

Hello doctor,

About a month ago, I had the worst outbreak of canker sores in my life. I had 10 or 12 at once, horribly painful, and I could barely eat or drink. Over about two weeks, they healed, but I still have a few painless bumps on the top of my tongue and in the back of my mouth. I will attach an image of the bumps on the back of my mouth. There are two on either side.

The bumps on my tongue are too far back to get a proper photo. I tested positive for HPV, so I am mildly concerned about cancer. Brushing my teeth also causes a lot of pain in my gums. Occasionally, they bleed a little. I never had an issue with that before the canker sore outbreak.

Kindly help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read your complaint and the relevant details, and also saw the picture you have attached. (attachment removed to protect patient identity).

Since you have mentioned that the ulcers healed two weeks ago and still have a few fresh ulcers now, it could be recurrent aphthous mouth ulcers. Aphthous ulcers are usually painful but will not lead to cancerous lesions. But there are small bursts in your palate, which makes me think of viral ulcers as well. You also have a history of HPV (human papilloma virus).

Hence, I advise you to take a blood test to rule out viral origin ulcers. Only then could the treatment be framed. You have also mentioned that they are painless now. So there is no need for topical ointments to get rid of the pain. You should also know a fact that topical steroids should not be used for viral lesions. So I request you to complete the blood check and then go ahead with the treatment from a nearby dentist accordingly.

Regarding bleeding gums, you have to undertake a complete professional cleaning by a dentist to flush out the dental plaque and chunky substances called calculus. After that, maintain good oral hygiene, including flossing, tongue cleaning, and toothbrushing twice a day.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.