As women we all know too well our hormone levels change frequently, this can be due to menstrual cycle, pregnancy, menopause or just daily grind and overload of stress. Mouth ulcers typically are short lived as our immune system jumps into gear and works quickly to heal.

Just to be clear we are talking about small white raised lesion on the inside of your cheek, lip or even on your tongue. If you see one on the outside of your mouth around the lip area that is something a little different and a topic for another day.

Some mouth ulcers can be caused by something as simple as biting your lip, tongue or cheek, Rubbing braces or ill-fitting dentures and mobile appliances. An accidental bump whilst drinking your wine on a Friday evening can cause a small ulcer to appear, and usually disappears as quickly as your spare change in your wallet. Stress, poor diet and illness can cause lingering or reoccurring ulcers and can be a little more serious.

So, what can we do about these little ulcers and when is the best time to get it checked out.

A few old wives tales with help to get over an ulcer a little quicker.

Go and brush your teeth!

By brushing your teeth, you are removing any debris, plaque and build up that your body fights to shed from your mouth. Toothpaste is formulated to help prevent bacteria and disease from building up in and around your teeth and gums.

Rub a small amount of toothpaste on the spot.

If you regularly brush and still have a pesky ulcer, by rubbing a small amount of tooth paste on the ulcer, this helps keep the area clean and helps fight bacteria that may be lingering.

Reduce some stress.

Yes, that is easier said than done sometimes but as women we tend to take on a little more than men and as a result our bodies become fatigued and struggle to fight and heal the most simplest little bumps and bruises. You will find in most people your mouth is the first place to show we need to slow down.

When to seek help, If you have an ulcer that lingers on for more than a week, maybe and gradually gets bigger, or changes colour or tastes a little weird. It’s time to seek a little advice. Pop in and see your Dentist or GP just to make sure there is no underlying reason for the ulcer.