From the Guidelines
Yes, stomatitis refers to inflammation of the mouth and lips, which commonly manifests as mouth sores or ulcers. It's a general term that encompasses various conditions causing irritation, sores, or inflammation in the oral tissues. Stomatitis can appear as single or multiple painful ulcers, redness, or swelling affecting the gums, tongue, lips, inside of the cheeks, or roof of the mouth. Common types include aphthous stomatitis (canker sores), herpes simplex (cold sores), and denture stomatitis. Treatment depends on the underlying cause but often includes maintaining good oral hygiene, using saltwater rinses (1/2 teaspoon salt in 1 cup warm water), avoiding spicy or acidic foods, and using over-the-counter topical medications like benzocaine gels or antimicrobial mouthwashes. For pain management, acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be helpful, as suggested by expert opinion 1. More severe cases might require prescription medications such as topical steroids, antiviral drugs for herpes-related stomatitis, or antibiotics for bacterial infections. Stomatitis occurs because of irritation to the oral mucosa, which can be triggered by infections, allergic reactions, nutritional deficiencies, systemic diseases, or local trauma, as noted in the management of oral and gastrointestinal mucosal injury guidelines 1.
Some key points to consider in the management of stomatitis include:
- Preventive measures, such as eliminating sources of trauma and avoiding painful stimuli, are important in reducing the severity of stomatitis 1.
- Effective oral hygiene is crucial, and patients should be educated about oral complications before treatment 1.
- Expert opinion suggests that basic oral care protocols, including sodium bicarbonate containing mouthwash, can be used to prevent and treat stomatitis 1.
- For moderate pain, a topical NSAID (e.g. amlexanox 5% oral paste) may be considered, and with persistent severe pain, more aggressive pain management may be necessary, including systemic corticosteroids or other treatments 1.
Overall, the management of stomatitis requires a comprehensive approach that takes into account the underlying cause, severity of symptoms, and individual patient needs, as outlined in the guidelines and expert opinions 1.
From the Research
Definition of Stomatitis
- Stomatitis refers to a condition characterized by inflammation of the mucous lining of the mouth, which can cause mouth sores [(2,3,4,5,6)].
- It can be caused by various factors, including fungal infections, such as Candida-associated denture stomatitis [(3,4,5)], and recurrent aphthous stomatitis (canker sores) [(2,6)].
Types of Stomatitis
- Denture stomatitis is a common form of oral candidal infection, often caused by Candida albicans [(3,4,5)].
- Recurrent aphthous stomatitis is the most common ulcerative condition of the oral cavity 2.
- Stomatitis can also be caused by other factors, such as herpes simplex labialis 2, corticosteroids, immunocompromise, antibiotics, and dentures [(2,3)].
Symptoms and Treatment
- Symptoms of stomatitis can include oral ulcers, pain, and discomfort [(2,3,4,5,6)].
- Treatment options for stomatitis depend on the underlying cause, but can include antifungal medications, disinfection methods, and SLS-free dentifrices [(3,4,5,6)].