10 Causes of Gum Ulcers and Effective Ways to Treat Them
Inflamed reddish-white spots that form on the oral mucosa, including the gums, are known as canker sores. The causes of canker sores on the gums vary, from internal factors such as nutrient deficiencies to external factors such as brushing habits.
As a common health issue, canker sores can be quite disruptive. The stinging and painful sensation they cause often makes it difficult for sufferers to speak or eat.
Don't want canker sores to bother you? Find out the causes and how to treat them here!
What Causes Canker Sores on the Gums
Canker sores on the gums can be a symptom of another illness, but they are also often caused by small habits that unknowingly trigger their appearance. As a preventive measure, here are some causes of canker sores appearing on the gums:
1. Overly Aggressive Toothbrushing Technique

Intending to remove plaque from the teeth as thoroughly as possible, overly aggressive brushing can actually injure the gums. Within a few days, the painful wound will develop into a stinging and burning canker sore.
2. Dehydration

Dehydration is closely linked to a reduced rate of saliva production by the parotid glands, which produce saliva.[1]
In the mouth, saliva acts as a natural lubricant that keeps the mouth moist and healthy. When saliva production decreases, the mouth becomes dry and more prone to injury. This is what makes canker sores on the gums more likely to appear in dry mouth conditions.
3. Ill-Fitting Dentures

Ill-fitting dentures can cause excessive friction between the dentures and the gum tissue. This continuous friction can irritate the gums and other oral tissues, which can then cause wounds or canker sores.
4. Calcium Deficiency

When the body lacks calcium, oral mucosal function can be impaired. The oral mucosa, which should protect the oral tissues, cannot function optimally, so even minor friction or impact on the gums can trigger canker sores.
5. SLS Irritation

Some toothpaste products contain SLS. This ingredient is actually quite useful in toothpaste because it helps distribute the toothpaste evenly throughout the mouth and reduces bacteria. However, using toothpaste with a high concentration of SLS can irritate the gums and make them more susceptible to canker sores.[2]
6. Eating Spicy Foods

Spicy foods are often a favorite of many people because of their unique taste and sensation. However, for some people, eating spicy foods can cause canker sores because these foods can irritate the gums, especially sensitive gums.
7. Increased Estrogen and Progesterone Levels

Increased estrogen and progesterone levels, such as during menstruation, menopause, and when taking birth control pills, can increase the risk of gum inflammation.[3] The gums become more prone to swelling and bleeding, which also increases the potential for canker sores to develop.
8. Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Studies show that 34.4% of patients with canker sores have a vitamin B12 deficiency.[4] This vitamin deficiency is often caused by an inadequate intake of animal products and can also be triggered by alcohol consumption and conditions such as anemia and gastritis.
9. Eating Hard Foods

The cause of canker sores on the back of the gums is the habit of eating hard foods. Hard foods, such as chips, dry bread, and hard candy, can cause wounds or abrasions on the back of the gums. This is because the chewing process naturally takes place with the molars located at the back of the mouth.
10. Eating Acidic Foods

Eating acidic foods and drinks, such as tomatoes, pineapple, vinegar, and coffee, can trigger canker sores by irritating the delicate tissues in the mouth. Consuming these foods and drinks can trigger inflammation that leads to canker sores.
How to Treat Canker Sores on the Gums

Are canker sores on the lower, upper, and back of the mouth making it difficult for you to eat and drink? Here are several effective and practical ways to heal canker sores on the gums:
Rinse with Natural Mouthwash
Unlike canker sores on the lips, which are easily visible, canker sores on the gums can be located in hidden and hard-to-reach places. To treat them, using a mouthwash that can reach all parts of the mouth is the solution.
You can use chamomile tea or salt water, both of which contain natural anti-inflammatory and disinfectant properties that can relieve canker sores.
Apply Turmeric Powder
For canker sores on the front gums, you can apply turmeric powder. Its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties will gradually relieve canker sores while preventing them from recurring.
Drink Sido Muncul Alang Sari Cool
For a more practical yet effective solution, you can drink Sido Muncul Alang Sari Cool. Made from alang-alang root extract, grass jelly leaves, and lime juice, this drink will speed up the healing process of canker sores on the gums. Not only that, its freshness will also help you relieve internal heat.
To maintain oral health and prevent canker sores, it is important to know the various causes of canker sores on the gums and how to treat them. With proper care and the consumption of Sido Muncul Alang Sari Cool, you can enjoy a life free from canker sores.
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