return to Health Line main index

HEALTH LINE

Questions and Answers

Q
What is the cause of apthous ulceration and what can be done about it ? Can one do something do prevent it ?

A
Unknown, but likely a localized immune reaction ... deficiencies in iron, vitamin B12 and folic acid increases susceptibiliy ... stress and local trauma are likely the predominant precipitating factors.

For non-severe episodes, there are several treatments ... a topical anaesthetic as an oral rinse ...a dental protective paste (Orabase tm) ... triamcinolone acetonide in emollient dental paste.

For severe episodes, corticosteroid therapy is indicated.

Best wishes.

return to Health Line main index