Stomatitis: the most effective dietary supplements

Stomatitis refers to inflammation of the mouth, which can affect several parts of the oral cavity, including the cheek mucosa, the floor of the mouth, the palate, the gums, and the tongue. It can be the symptomatic manifestation of an underlying systemic disease, and the causes are numerous and varied​.

Symptoms

The symptoms of stomatitis vary depending on the cause and the severity of the inflammation. In general, the following are observed: • Redness and swelling of the oral tissues • Erosions and whitish deposits • Oral pain • Dry mouth or, conversely, hypersalivation • In severe cases, ulcers may appear, accompanied by bad breath and sometimes swollen lymph nodes​.

Causes

• Infections: bacterial (streptococci, gonococci, etc.), viral (Herpes simplex, measles, infectious mononucleosis), fungal (Candida albicans). • Nutritional deficiencies: for example, vitamin deficiencies, notably vitamin B12. • Trauma: dental injuries, ill-fitting dental prostheses. • Irritating or toxic substances: smoking, exposure to chemicals, reactions to certain medications (iatrogenic stomatitis). • Allergic reactions​.

Treatment

• Bacterial or fungal infection: topical or systemic antibiotics or antifungals. • Pain: analgesics and local anesthetics can be used to relieve pain. • Antiseptic mouthwashes: recommended to prevent superinfections. • Correction of aggravating factors: adjustment of dental prostheses, improvement of oral hygiene, treatment of nutritional deficiencies​.