Symptom Checker

Mouth Ulcers in Children

A mouth ulcer is an open sore inside the lips, cheeks, gums, tongue or other parts of the mouth. Ulcers can be painful and may make eating or drinking uncomfortable.

Canker sores, viral infections, accidental biting, braces, burns and other irritation are common causes. Some medicines, nutritional problems and inflammatory conditions can also cause mouth ulcers.

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AAP Guide to Mouth Ulcers in Children

The AAP guide below explains common causes, ways to ease the pain and when mouth sores need medical care.

AAP Symptom CheckerMouth ulcers

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When to see a doctor

Contact your pediatrician or another healthcare professional if:

Your child is drinking much less or urinating much less.
Mouth pain is severe or there are many ulcers.
Fever or other symptoms are significant.
Ulcers persist longer than expected or keep returning.

Call 911 or get emergency care if:

Your child cannot swallow fluids.
Your child has severe dehydration or trouble breathing.
You think your child has a life-threatening emergency.

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When can my child be seen

Be seen today.

Every office keeps same-day appointments for illness and injury.

This evening or at the weekend.

Most offices run After Hours Care, by appointment rather than walk-in.

If you are worried, call. We would rather answer a question that turns out to be nothing.

Mouth Ulcers in Children

AAP Guide to Mouth Ulcers in Children

When to see a doctor

Talk to a nurse now, at any hour

When can my child be seen

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