Causes of tongue blisters
Blisters on the tongue can form due to hot beverages or crunchy foods. They may also be due to something more serious, such as an infection or an imbalance in your body.
The cause of tongue blisters depends on their types. Sometimes, if the tongue blister is not treated on time, it can also infect other parts of the mouth.
Canker sores are a common type of oral infection. They are small lesions that form under the tongue, on the gum, on the tongue, or inside the cheeks. They have a yellow or white center with a red border.
Don't confuse them with cold sores. Canker sores aren't contagious, which means they do not spread from one person to another through contact. You cannot get canker sores from someone by sharing their food or kissing them.
Another difference between canker sores and cold sores is that cold sores always form outside the mouth. Canker sores develop inside the mouth.
Initially, they are painful red bumps or spots but later become blisters. Canker sores are caused due to stress, lack of zinc, folate, and Vitamin B12, lowered immune response, and hormonal problems.
Some people get canker sores at a stressful time in their lives, such as during the exam season.
Mouth injuries, such as biting the inner side of your lip or damaging the lining of the mouth due to brushing too hard, can also cause canker sores.
Sodium lauryl sulfate is an ingredient present in many types of mouthwash and toothpaste. It has also been linked to canker sores.
If you have other symptoms along with your canker sores, such as fever, joint pain, and skin rashes, it's best to speak to a doctor right away.
Oral candidiasis or thrush is a condition in which fungus grows on the lining of your mouth. The fungus that causes this condition is called Candida albicans. Although this fungus is normally present in the mouth, it can cause symptoms of thrush if its growth accelerates.
Oral thrush forms white lesions on your inner cheeks and tongue. Sometimes, it may spread to your tonsils, back of the throat, and gums. It's important to consult a doctor before this happens.
Apart from the fungus, some risk factors can increase your likelihood of getting oral candidiasis.
- The condition commonly affects older adults and infants due to their weak immunity. Some medical conditions, such as HIV and AIDS, also lower immunity.
- People with diabetes have a large amount of sugar in their saliva if the blood sugar level is not controlled. This sugar promotes the growth of candida, which can lead to oral thrush.
- Some medicines, such as corticosteroids and antibiotics, can disturb the natural microorganism balance in the body. This may lead to oral thrush in some cases.
How to get rid of blisters on the tongue
In most cases, blisters on the tongue heal on their own in a few weeks. You can use an over-the-counter pain relief medicine for the pain while you're waiting for the blisters to heal.
If the blisters are due to a fungal infection, your dentist might recommend an antifungal treatment.
How to prevent blisters on the tongue
If you get the right nutrition, keep proper dental hygiene, and lower your stress levels, you can stay safe from tongue blisters. Although these blisters tend to recur, you can lower the frequency by following some tips.
Eat right
If you are getting frequent canker sores, don't eat foods that irritate your mouth. Some examples include pretzels, acidic fruits, nuts, chips, salty foods, and certain spices. If you're allergic or sensitive to any food item, avoid eating it.
Instead, you should eat healthy foods with sufficient vitamins to prevent any deficiency. Make sure you're eating enough whole grains, vegetables, and fruits in your daily diet.
Follow good oral hygiene
Brush your teeth after meals and floss once daily to keep your mouth free of remains of foods that may cause blisters and sores. Don't brush too hard, as that can damage the inner lining of your mouth.
Use a brush with soft bristles instead. Don't use toothpaste or mouthwashes that have sodium lauryl sulfate.
If you have any dental appliances or braces in your mouth, speak to your dentists about getting orthodontic waxes. These will cover the sharp edges, keeping your tongue and inner mouth lining safe from injury.
Lower stress
Often, sores and blisters on the tongue and inside the mouth are due to heightened stress. Lower your stress levels by using different relaxation techniques, such as meditation.