Stomatitis is a condition characterized by inflammation in the mouth, which can involve the gums, inner cheeks, tongue, or lips. It includes various types, such as canker sores (aphthous stomatitis), viral blisters caused by herpes simplex (herpetic stomatitis), and irritation from poorly fitted or unclean dentures (denture-related stomatitis). Each type is triggered by different factors and presents with unique symptoms.
Causes:Stomatitis can develop due to various factors that irritate or inflame the tissues inside the mouth. These causes can range from infections to external irritants and underlying health conditions. Key contributors include:
- Viral or Bacterial Infections: Certain infections, such as those caused by the herpes simplex virus, can lead to herpetic stomatitis, characterized by painful blisters. Bacterial infections, often stemming from dental issues or injuries, may also provoke inflammation in the mouth.
- Irritants: Consuming acidic or spicy foods, smoking, or using products with harsh chemicals like alcohol-based mouthwashes can irritate the mouth’s lining, increasing the risk of stomatitis. Trauma, such as accidentally biting the cheek, can also contribute.
- Nutritional Deficiencies: Insufficient levels of essential nutrients like vitamin B12, folate, or iron are commonly linked to recurring sores or general mouth inflammation.
- Allergic Reactions: Allergies to certain dental materials, oral products, or food additives may trigger an inflammatory response in sensitive individuals.
- Systemic Conditions: Autoimmune disorders, such as lupus or Behçet’s disease, can cause chronic and recurring oral inflammation as part of their broader symptoms.
- Denture Use: Poorly fitting or unclean dentures can create friction or harbor pathogens, leading to localized inflammation known as denture-related stomatitis.
Certain individuals are more prone to developing stomatitis due to a range of personal and environmental factors. These include:
- Individuals with Weakened Immune Systems: People undergoing treatments such as chemotherapy, or those with conditions like HIV/AIDS, are more susceptible to mouth infections and resulting inflammation.
- Children and Young Adults: Herpetic stomatitis commonly occurs in younger individuals, especially during a person’s initial exposure to the herpes simplex virus.
- Frequent Denture Wearers: Adults who use dentures, particularly if they are poorly fitted or not cleaned regularly, face a higher likelihood of irritation and inflammation in the mouth.
- Individuals with Nutritional Deficiencies: Lack of key nutrients such as vitamins B12 and C, folate, or iron can weaken the tissues in the mouth, increasing the risk of sores and infections.
- Those Exposed to Oral Irritants: Habits like smoking, regular consumption of alcohol, or use of harsh oral care products can irritate the mouth and lead to stomatitis over time.
- People with Chronic Health Conditions: Autoimmune disorders like lupus or inflammatory bowel disease frequently manifest with mouth ulcers and recurring inflammation.
