Short Description
Inflammation of the mouth’s soft tissues, causing redness, swelling, and discomfort, often due to infections, irritants, or medical conditions.
Long Description
Stomatitis is a broad term for inflammation of the soft tissues in the mouth, including the cheeks, gums, tongue, lips, and roof of the mouth. It can be caused by infections (viral, bacterial, or fungal), irritants (such as spicy foods, tobacco, or ill-fitting dentures), or underlying health conditions like vitamin deficiencies or autoimmune diseases.
Symptoms of stomatitis may include redness, swelling, pain, ulcers, or a burning sensation. Common types include aphthous ulcers (canker sores), herpetic stomatitis (cold sores caused by HSV-1), and denture stomatitis (caused by poor denture hygiene).
Treatment depends on the cause and may involve antimicrobial mouth rinses, pain relievers, or dietary adjustments. Maintaining good oral hygiene and avoiding known irritants can help prevent recurrences. If symptoms persist or worsen, a dentist should be consulted for further evaluation.