Stomatitis is also known as mouth rot or inflammation of the oral mucosa The causes of stomatitis can be varied, but in most cases it can be traced back to gingivitis. Stomatitis itself is one of the virally caused inflammation of the oral mucosaIn today's blog post we will explain to you what form stomatitis takes, what causes it and how you can best prevent it.
The most common forms of stomatitis include:
- Stomatitis alergica, which can develop as a result of an allergic reaction
- Stomatitis angluaris, which mainly occurs at the corners of the mouth
- Stomatitis aphtosa, which can be caused by the herpes simplex virus
- Stomatitis catarrhalis/simplex, often manifests itself through a purulent course
- Stomatitis diabetica, which often occurs in patients with diabetes mellitus
- Stomatitis epidemica, also known as foot-and-mouth disease
- Stomatitis medicamentosa, which occurs as a result of a hypersensitivity reaction to medications in the mouth area
- Stomatitis mycotica, which is a fungal inflammation
- Ulcerative stomatitis, which is not only very painful but can also be accompanied by membrane-covered ulcers
- Thrush-stomatitis candidomycetica, which is a yeast infection
What causes stomatitis?
The Causes of Stomatitis are incredibly diverse. It is often caused by an infection with bacteria, yeasts or viruses. A characteristic feature of fungal stomatitis is the white coating on the oral mucosa. All stomatitis is often preceded by a weak immune system. A weak immune system allows the infection to spread. Even if the mucous membrane in the mouth is already damaged, bacteria and viruses are particularly likely to settle there.
In addition to infectious causes, there are also numerous non-infectious triggers. These include, for example:
- Deposits, plaque, tartar and caries
- allergies and various intolerances
- consumption of stimulants such as tobacco and alcohol
- irradiation with radiotherapy
- Vitamin deficiency, for example vitamin B or iron deficiency
- irritations
- injuries
- poisoning
- burns
- chemical burns
- Systemic diseases
- Sexually transmitted diseases
- Psychosomatic reasons, stress
- hormonal fluctuations
- Dry oral mucosa
- dentures and braces
- Gingivitis that develops from stomatitis
What symptoms indicate stomatitis?
Typical signs of stomatitis include: Swelling or redness of the gums or oral mucosa. These areas can also be painful when touched or moved. So-called aphthous ulcers, ulcers with a whitish coating, are also symptoms that can indicate stomatitis. bad breath and sore spots on the palate inside the cheeks or on the tongue can also be considered a symptom of stomatitis.
Burning and tingling, impairments in food and even liquid intake, bleeding gums, erosions, ulcerations, necrosis, dry mouth, bleeding mucous membranes, localized or large-scale plaque and many other symptoms can also indicate a first indication of stomatitis delivery.
What treatment options are there for stomatitis?
Depending on the cause, Treating Stomatitis Well. Avoid hot, spicy, sharp or hard foods. Also avoid tobacco and alcohol. Herbal and chemical preparations from the pharmacy can reduce inflammation and relieve pain. If your stomatitis does not improve within two weeks or returns, you should see a doctor. With the help of laboratory analyses, the doctor will make an accurate diagnosis. However, do not wait too long to go to the doctor. If mouth rot is not treated in time, it can spread to the eyes. In very rare cases, mouth rot can also lead to meningitis.
The treatment mostly focuses on the pain relief and symptoms. Painkillers and fever reducers as well as rinses, gels and mouthwashes reduce the inflammation in most cases. Antiviral drugs are only prescribed in very severe cases.
How can stomatitis be prevented?
In principle, everyone can suffer from stomatitis. Thorough oral hygiene not only protects you from dental and oral diseases, but also from many other diseases and physical ailments. In addition to daily dental and oral hygiene and cleaning your interdental spaces The use of a disinfectant mouthwash is recommended.
A strong immune system can also help to protect against bacteria, viruses and fungi. For this reason, eat healthily. If you are starting to get gingivitis, you can also treat your gums with raw foods that contain nitrates. Lots of exercise in the fresh air, as well as sport, alternating showers and sauna sessions also strengthen your immune system.
Also ensure Relaxation and avoid psychological stressThey can also weaken your immune system. This in turn promotes illness and infections. So treat yourself to mental and physical relaxation on a regular basis, ideally every day. Also make sure you get enough sleep. All of this has a positive effect on your immune system, your body and your mind.
If there are people around you who suffer from stomatitis, avoid contact to avoid infection. Also follow the usual hygiene rules.