Dr. M.J. Bazos, MD.
Patient Handout
STOMATITIS
About Your
Diagnosis
Stomatitis is a generalized inflammation of the
mouth. It involves the oral mucosa, lips, tongue, and palate. There are many
causes of stomatitis. Acute herpetic stomatitis and aphthous stomatitis are the
two most common auses. Other causes include allergic reactions, smoking, dental
disease, vitamin deficiencies, systemic diseases, medications, and other viral
and bacterial infections. Stomatitis is a common condition found in all age
groups. An examination is the best way to detect stomatitis. Occasionally if the
cause is not clear or there is no improvement with treatment, a biopsy is done.
In most cases, stomatitis will resolve with outpatient
treatment.
Living With Your
Diagnosis
There are variable signs and
symptoms associated with stomatitis. There is inflammation of the mouth that may
be associated with varying amounts of pain. Sores (ulcers) in the mouth are
associated with some causes. You may also have bad breath (halitosis). There may
also be symptoms of fever, malaise, headache, and loss of appetite.
Treatment
The
treatment will vary depending on the cause. The key, no matter the cause, is
providing symptomatic relief. Analgesics such as acetaminophen and topical
anesthetic agents should be used. Mouth rinses with a half teaspoon of baking
soda and 8 oz of warm water can provide relief. If symptoms are so severe that
you are not able to drink fluids, intravenous fluids may be given. The other
treatment options are dependent on the cause. If the cause is bacterial
infection, antibiotics are necessary. If the cause is nutritional deficiencies,
vitamin supplementation is the treatment. If the symptoms are severe,
corticosteriods taken by mouth may be
necessary.
The
DOs
• A bland or liquid diet may
be needed.
• Good oral hygiene is
necessary. Brush and floss teeth and clean the tongue after each meal. See a
dentist regularly.
• If you wear
dentures, they should be fitted
properly.
The
DON’Ts
• Avoid foods that
are spicy, hard, sharp, or dry.
•
Avoid foods or other agents that can cause allergic reactions in the
mouth.
• Avoid
smoking.
When to Call Your
Doctor
• If you have symptoms of
stomatitis.
• If symptoms worsen
after treatment begins.
• If symptoms
do not resolve after 7–14 days of treatment.