Start with a dentist or a general physician
A dentist is usually the quickest first stop because ulcers are often caused by something dental: a sharp tooth, a cracked filling, braces or a denture that rubs. A dentist can also tell whether an ulcer looks ordinary or needs a closer look. A general physician is a good first stop if the ulcers recur, come with fever, a rash, tiredness or symptoms elsewhere in the body, because blood tests and checks beyond the mouth are needed.
Either can arrange the next step. You do not need a referral to see a dentist.
When another specialist is involved
Different specialists cover different situations. The table sets out the usual routes.
| Specialist | Usually involved when |
|---|---|
| Dentist | First check; sharp teeth, dentures, fillings, recurring ulcers, white or red patches |
| General physician | Ulcers with fever, tiredness, rashes, gut symptoms, or signs of a vitamin or iron problem |
| Oral medicine specialist | Ulcers that keep recurring, are unusual, or have no clear cause |
| Oral and maxillofacial surgeon or ENT surgeon | An ulcer that has not healed in three weeks, needing a biopsy; throat, neck or swallowing symptoms |
| Dermatologist | Mouth sores together with skin or genital problems, or conditions such as lichen planus |
| Paediatrician | Mouth sores in a baby or child with fever or poor feeding |
General guide to who looks after mouth ulcers. Referral routes vary, so ask the doctor or dentist you see first.
The ulcer that does not heal
The rule on our mouth ulcers page applies to every doctor: an ulcer that has not healed in three weeks needs examining, painful or not. The usual step is a biopsy, a small sample taken under local anaesthetic and looked at in a laboratory. It is a standard step, not a sign that something is wrong; it simply settles the question.
Our guide on the difference between a mouth ulcer and cancer explains what makes doctors suspicious, and why tobacco, gutkha and supari users should not wait.
What to bring and what you may be asked
Be ready to say how long the ulcer has been there, whether it hurts, whether it has been in the same place before, what you chew or smoke, and what medicines you take. Mention fevers, weight loss, rashes or gut symptoms.
For repeated ulcers the doctor may suggest blood tests, and our guide on mouth ulcers and vitamin deficiency explains what they look for. See someone the same day if there is spreading facial swelling or fever, and go to a hospital emergency department if swallowing or breathing is affected.
Common questions
Should I see a dentist or a doctor for a mouth ulcer?
Either is a reasonable start. A dentist can check for a dental cause such as a sharp tooth or denture. A general physician suits ulcers with fever, tiredness or other symptoms. Both can refer you on.
Which specialist treats recurring mouth ulcers?
Recurring ulcers are usually first assessed by a dentist or general physician, who may arrange blood tests. An oral medicine specialist or a dermatologist is involved if the cause is unclear or unusual.
When does a mouth ulcer need a biopsy?
When it has not healed within three weeks, or has hard, raised or bleeding edges, whether or not it hurts. A biopsy is a small sample under local anaesthetic and is the standard way of settling the question.
Do I need a referral to see a specialist?
Often a dentist or physician arranges it, which saves time and makes sure you see the right person. Policies vary between hospitals, so ask when booking.
About this page
This page is general information, not a diagnosis or a quotation. Prices are prevailing Lucknow market ranges. Your own treatment and cost are determined after an examination. For questions about your own case, call +91 83036 12717.