Stomatitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Effective Treatment Methods

28 June 2025

Stomatitis can develop due to multiple factors. In most cases, it is caused by bacterial or viral infections, immune system disorders, vitamin or mineral deficiencies, allergic reactions, stress, hormonal changes, as well as mechanical injuries such as ill-fitting dentures or trauma from a toothbrush.

Specialists at Blits dental - kakhaber kharebava clinic note that stomatitis is especially common among children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals.

Types of stomatitis

Stomatitis is not a uniform condition and can be classified into several types depending on the cause and clinical presentation:

Aphthous stomatitis is the most common form and is characterized by small, painful ulcers in the oral cavity. These ulcers are typically white or yellow with a surrounding red area. The exact cause is often unknown but may be linked to immune system issues, stress, or vitamin deficiency.

Herpetic stomatitis is caused by the herpes simplex virus and is marked by painful blisters that later burst and form ulcers. This type often occurs in children and may be accompanied by fever and swollen lymph nodes.

Candidal stomatitis, or oral thrush, is caused by the fungus Candida albicans. It is characterized by white, milk-like patches on the oral mucosa, which leave a red and sometimes bleeding surface when removed.

Bacterial stomatitis may develop due to poor oral hygiene, weakened immunity, or bacterial infection. It commonly presents with red, swollen mucosa and may be accompanied by purulent discharge.

Allergic stomatitis arises from allergic reactions to food, toothpaste, mouthwashes, or other substances. In such cases, redness, swelling, and itching of the oral mucosa may occur.

Symptoms of stomatitis

The symptoms of stomatitis can vary significantly depending on the severity and type:

Oral pain and discomfort are among the most common symptoms. Tooth pain relief often becomes a priority for patients, as the pain can be quite intense. In some cases, the pain extends to the tooth nerve, which further worsens the patient’s condition.

Ulcers and lesions in the mouth are another key symptom of stomatitis. These commonly appear on the inner cheeks, tongue, gums, palate, or lips. The ulcers may be small or large, single or multiple, and are often surrounded by a red area.

Redness and swelling of the oral mucosa are indicators of inflammation and are present in nearly all forms of stomatitis.

Discomfort during eating, speaking, or swallowing is another frequent complaint. During stomatitis, the oral mucosa becomes more sensitive, making food intake difficult and potentially causing nutritional deficiency, especially if the condition persists.

Stomatitis may also be accompanied by systemic symptoms such as fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, and swollen lymph nodes. These symptoms are more commonly associated with viral forms, such as herpetic stomatitis.

Treatment of stomatitis

The goal of treating stomatitis is to relieve symptoms, control infection, and restore oral health.

Antibacterial and antifungal medications are used when stomatitis is caused by bacterial or fungal infections. These may come in the form of gels, pastes, rinses, or tablets, depending on the type and severity of the condition.

Antiviral medications are prescribed in cases of herpetic stomatitis. These help slow viral replication and speed up recovery. They are most effective when taken immediately after symptoms appear.

Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications may be prescribed to alleviate tooth pain. These help reduce discomfort and make eating easier. In cases involving tooth nerve pain, specific analgesics are often required.

Immunomodulators and vitamins are effective for strengthening the immune system, especially in recurrent stomatitis. B vitamins, vitamin C, and zinc are commonly used to improve oral mucosal health.

Blits Dental specialists  emphasize that maintaining proper oral hygiene during treatment is essential. A soft-bristled toothbrush and antibacterial toothpaste are recommended to prevent further irritation of the mucosa.

Home remedies for stomatitis

Home treatment for stomatitis may help relieve symptoms, although professional medical assistance is necessary in severe cases.

Rinsing the mouth with salt water is a simple and effective way to reduce inflammation. Half a teaspoon of salt dissolved in a glass of warm water should be used several times a day. This helps reduce bacterial growth and accelerates healing.

Chamomile tea is also used to ease the symptoms of stomatitis. Chamomile has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, making it beneficial in treating oral inflammation. It is recommended to use it 3–4 times a day.

Aloe vera gel promotes ulcer healing during stomatitis. It has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. The gel should be applied to the affected area several times a day.

Honey is known for its antibacterial and healing properties. Applying a small amount of pure honey directly onto the ulcer may aid the healing process and reduce pain.

A soft and balanced diet is recommended during stomatitis. Avoid spicy, acidic, salty, and coarse foods, which can further irritate the damaged mucosa. It is also important to limit hot beverages and alcohol consumption.

When to consult a dentist

Although mild cases of stomatitis can be treated at home, there are instances when professional help is necessary:

If symptoms do not improve within 1–2 weeks or worsen despite treatment, a visit to the dentist is essential. Chronic or recurrent stomatitis requires specialist attention.

Severe pain that prevents eating or drinking is another reason to see a dentist. Dehydration and nutritional deficiencies can lead to serious complications, particularly in children and elderly patients.

A high fever (above 38°C) in combination with stomatitis may indicate an infection and requires immediate medical attention. Other alarming signs include significantly enlarged lymph nodes and rapidly growing or unusually large oral ulcers.

At our clinic, qualified dentists offer professional diagnostics and modern methods for the treatment of stomatitis. Early diagnosis and appropriate therapy significantly reduce the risk of complications and speed up the recovery process.

Stomatitis Prevention

Prevention of stomatitis includes proper oral hygiene and a healthy lifestyle:

Regular and proper oral hygiene is the basis for stomatitis prevention. It is recommended to brush your teeth twice a day, floss, and have regular professional cleanings with a dentist.

A balanced diet, rich in vitamins and minerals, especially B vitamins, vitamin C, and zinc, helps maintain the health of the oral mucosa.

Stress management is very important, as stress can be a trigger for aphthous stomatitis. Meditation, yoga, regular physical activity, and adequate sleep can help reduce stress levels.

Reducing or completely quitting bad habits, such as smoking and drinking alcohol in large quantities, are also important for oral health.

Regular visits to the dentist allow you to detect oral problems at an early stage and plan appropriate treatment. It is advisable to consult a dentist at least twice a year for preventive purposes.

Stomatitis, although often not a threat to health, can significantly reduce the quality of life. If you suspect stomatitis or have been suffering from oral problems for a long time, do not delay, contact the specialists of Blits Dental - Kakhaber Kharebava Clinic for professional consultation and treatment.