What Causes Mouth Sores?

Folate Deficiency

A folate deficiency can cause anemia, which can, in turn, lead to mouth sores and dry mouth. Folate is also known as folic acid, and it is one of the B vitamins. It helps repair DNA, make DNA, and produce red blood cells. Patients can increase their folate intake by having dark green vegetables and citrus juices. Just a few weeks of reduced folate intake can cause a deficiency. Some individuals also develop a folate deficiency because of a genetic mutation or disease that keeps the body from converting folate into usable proteins. Folic acid is important for pregnant women, as folate deficiencies in pregnancy have the potential to cause birth defects. The majority of individuals consume enough folate from their food. Many foods have added folic acid, which is a synthetic type of folate, to help prevent potential deficiency. Supplements are typically recommended for women who are pregnant or planning to be pregnant.

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Brushing Teeth Too Hard

An individual who experiences frequent mouth sores may be brushing their teeth too hard. When an individual brushes their teeth too hard, it causes erosion to their protective tooth enamel, which is the part of the tooth that stops bacteria from invading into the tooth. The more erosion that occurs in the tooth enamel, the more opportunities bacteria have to enter the tooth and surrounding gums. When bacteria find a way into these tissues, they can colonize and produce mouth sores. Brushing teeth too hard also means the gums are also being brushed too hard. Gums have a tough outer layer like teeth do that keep bacteria from entering the underlying tissues. The outer layer of the gums is similar to the outer layer of the skin, protecting the underlying tissues until it becomes lacerated or rubbed raw. Brushing this outer layer of the gums too hard can cause it to erode and produce raw spots in the gums that allow bacteria to grow into the fragile underlying gum tissue.

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