Types of Stomatitis
If you are living with stomatitis, it is important that you can discern which type of the condition affects you so you can seek adequate treatment. The most common types of stomatitis include:
Aphthous Stomatitis (Canker Sores)
One of the most common types of stomatitis is aphthous stomatitis, more commonly referred to as canker sores or mouth ulcers. Canker sores are spherical red or white lesions that form within the mouth. They are often painful or uncomfortable and can make eating and drinking more difficult.
If you are wondering what causes mouth ulcers, then it will typically be:
Stress and fatigue
Vitamin deficiencies
Hormonal changes
Canker sores are not contagious, so unlike some other types of stomatitis, when living with mouth ulcers you will not need to avoid close contact with others.
Herpetic Stomatitis (Cold Sores / Oral Herpes)
Another common type of stomatitis is herpetic stomatitis, also known as cold sores or oral herpes. Cold sores are caused by Herpes Simplex virus (HSV-1) and appear as small fluid-filled blisters on the lips, gums, or tongue.
If it is your first time experiencing one, oral herpes symptoms can include fever, headaches and even nausea. During reoccurrences of the virus, a person may feel a tingling sensation before a blister forms, then pain or discomfort once it has formed.
Cold sores are highly contagious. If you are living with herpetic stomatitis, avoid close contact with others, especially children, as HSV-1 is particularly dangerous for young people.
Angular Cheilitis (Cracked Corners of the Mouth)
Angular cheilitis is a fairly common skin condition that affects the corners of the mouth. It occurs when saliva builds up at the corners of the mouth and dries out the skin, eventually leading to painful cracks around the mouth and lips.
Angular cheilitis can also be caused by bacterial or fungal infections, vitamin deficiencies, and eczema. Most cases of the condition are not serious, but cracks around the mouth can be painful and irritating. Angular cheilitis treatment can be as simple as topical creams, but depending on the severity of the condition antibiotics or dental work may be needed.
Denture Stomatitis
If you wear dentures, you may occasionally notice inflammation or tenderness within your mouth. Denture stomatitis is a common condition, and type of thrush, that affects tissue within your mouth. Symptoms of denture stomatitis include:
One of the main causes of denture stomatitis is poor oral hygiene meaning it is vital to clean your teeth and mouth adequately if you wear dentures. Denture stomatitis treatment may involve antifungal medications, laser therapy, or oral surgeries in extreme cases.
Allergic Contact Stomatitis
Allergies and intolerances can also cause stomatitis. If the mouth comes into contact with an allergen, you may experience burning, swelling, or inflammation within the mouth. Toothpaste, mouthwash, and other commonly used oral hygiene products are often responsible for contact stomatitis, so if you experience the condition consider changing your oral care products.
