Stomatitis is an inflammation of the oral mucosa that may present with pain, ulcers, redness, or swelling inside the mouth. It is a relatively common condition that can affect both children and adults and often causes discomfort while eating, drinking, or speaking.
Stomatitis can develop for a variety of reasons and is often related to oral hygiene, general health conditions, or external irritants.
One of the most common causes of stomatitis is infection, which may be:
bacterial (e.g., streptococci),
fungal (e.g., candidiasis),
viral (e.g., herpes virus).
The risk of infection increases with poor oral hygiene, a weakened immune system, diabetes, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy.
The oral mucosa may be damaged by:
tooth extraction or other dental procedures,
using a toothbrush that is too hard,
poorly fitted dentures or braces,
accidental biting of the cheek or tongue.
Certain medications, including chemotherapy drugs and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), may cause stomatitis as a side effect. Deficiencies of vitamins and minerals, especially B-group vitamins, folic acid, iron, and zinc, may also contribute to its development.
autoimmune diseases;
smoking and alcohol consumption;
genetic predisposition;
age (more common in children and older adults).
According to various sources, stomatitis may affect 20–50% of adults at least once in their lifetime.
The symptoms of stomatitis may vary depending on the type and severity of inflammation. The most common signs include:
pain or burning sensation in the mouth;
mouth ulcers (often white or yellowish with a red border);
redness and swelling of the oral mucosa;
increased salivation;
discomfort while eating or drinking;
fever (in more severe cases);
general fatigue or loss of appetite.
Different types of stomatitis may present differently. For example, aphthous stomatitis is usually associated with one or more painful ulcers, while herpetic stomatitis is characterized by painful blisters that may rupture and form ulcers.
Treatment of stomatitis depends on its cause and the severity of symptoms. Common management approaches include:
relief of pain and discomfort using topical products or rinses;
maintaining proper oral hygiene with gentle but regular tooth brushing;
mouth rinsing to help keep the oral cavity clean;
avoiding irritants, such as spicy, acidic, or very hot foods;
balanced nutrition to support healing of the oral mucosa.
If symptoms are severe, persistent, or interfere with eating and drinking, it is important to consult a healthcare professional or dentist.
Although stomatitis cannot always be prevented, the risk may be reduced by:
maintaining good daily oral hygiene;
visiting a dentist regularly;
following a balanced, nutrient-rich diet;
avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption;
managing stress;
using medications responsibly and consulting a doctor if side effects occur.
