Oral mucosa

Indispensable lining of the interior of the mouth

Estimated reading time: 3 min.

In contrast to our outer skin, the oral mucosa is particularly well moistened and has a strong blood supply. This makes problems with the oral mucosa all the more painful. Inflammations and injuries can lead to swollen, rough or dry oral mucosa. Sometimes the cause is obvious, but sometimes a disease may be hiding behind unpleasant oral mucosal discomfort. But the good news is that due to increased cell division, our oral mucosa usually regenerates quickly after injury.

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Reasons for an altered oral mucosa

A healthy oral mucosa has a pale pink color, is adequately moisturized and has no tears. However, sometimes the inside of our mouth feels less supple and more rough and swollen, or the oral mucosa may even become detached.

The oral mucosa is exposed to a variety of influences that can cause changes in tissue or coloration. Complaints to the oral mucosa may be comparatively insignificant, but in some cases may indicate disease. Typical risk factors for changes in the oral mucosa include:

If the oral mucosa is swollen or rough, it may be related to greater stress or an injury to the mucosa. For example, if you ate food that was too hot, very spicy, or hard-edged. Sometimes braces can trigger pain in the oral mucosa when brackets or wires rub against it.

Possible changes of the oral mucosa

In case of major injuries, of course, you should see a doctor immediately. In most cases, however, the oral mucosa heals on its own. The type of mucosal changes can be very different:

• Inflammation of the oral mucosa is recognizable by a red, swollen and painful mucous membrane
• Ulcers are small inflamed blisters on the oral mucosa
• Oral thrush is also manifested by infectious aphthae on the oral mucosa, which are highly contagious.
• A persistent whitish coating can indicate a fungal infection, for example oral thrush.
• In denture wearers, pressure points can be caused by the denture.
• Certain medications or pre-existing conditions can trigger complaints, e.g. dry oral mucosa

In the case of all unexplained changes in the oral mucosa, it is essential to see a doctor to rule out a malignant disease. White patches or nodules on the mucosa that cannot be wiped away could be precancerous or actually oral cancer. Fortunately, however, most problems with the oral mucosa are not permanent.

What is oral mucositis?

Inflammation of the oral mucosa (stomatitis) is manifested by red, swollen and painful areas in the oral cavity. If the inflammation is severe, it may be accompanied by bleeding, plaque, bad breath and numbness, or the oral mucosa may even detach somewhat. In most cases it is caused by a bacterial infection, but more rarely, for example, viruses, fungi, medications or previous illnesses are responsible for the inflammation. A generally dry oral mucosa or injuries in the mouth can also promote the spread of bacteria. The best way to stop this is with consistent oral hygiene.

What to eat in case of inflammation of the oral mucosa?

If you have inflammation of the oral mucosa, you should avoid sharp-edged or hard foods. Otherwise the mucous membrane will be additionally irritated. Hot, strongly spiced or acidic foods should also be eliminated from the menu for the time being. Soft or mild foods that can be eaten in small bites are best. Cooling foods or drinks are also pleasant. Careful oral hygiene should be observed after eating, even if the oral mucosa hurts.

How long do inflammations in the mouth last?

Depending on its severity, inflammation of the oral mucosa can heal after a short time or can drag on for a longer period of time. Most inflammations in the mouth are resolved in a few days, also because the tissue renews itself particularly quickly here. However, the strong blood circulation and the low cornification also make the oral mucosa particularly sensitive. Some inflammations must be given more time.

Rebuild the oral mucosa

If the swollen or rough oral mucosa is due to a minor injury, it will usually heal on its own. If necessary, you can use a pain-relieving gel or mouth rinses. Teas with sage or chamomile have an anti-inflammatory and decongestant effect. Such rinses are also good in case of inflammation or aphthae to rebuild the oral mucosa.

Dry oral mucosa can sometimes be prevented with sufficient fluid intake. Little stress, sweets only in moderation and the renunciation of smoking contributes to a healthy oral flora. Then the helpful bacteria can more easily keep the less helpful ones in check. In the case of pre-existing conditions related to oral health (e.g. diabetes), special caution is recommended. If the complaints do not disappear, the causes should be clarified by a doctor.

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