Does The Roof Of Your Mouth Hurt Because Of A Sore?

When the roof of your mouth hurts, something as simple as swallowing becomes a painful chore. You want relief, and you want it fast!

Knowing how to treat a sore roof of the mouth isn't always easy. First, you need to understand why the roof of your mouth hurts. Do you have a canker sore? An infection or oral thrush? Or did you somehow hurt your mouth? Let's explore why the roof of your mouth, known as the palate, hurts and what you can do about it.

Common Causes of Sores on the Roof of Your Mouth

Canker Sores

Canker sores are small, painful ulcers that develop in the mouth. Canker sores are widespread: up to 20% of us will have at least one canker sore in our lifetime.

Canker sores are typically small, white or yellowish sores with a red border. Causes of these painful little ulcers include:

• Hormonal changes
• Stress
• Nutritional deficiencies
• Injuries to the mouth

Burns from Hot Foods or Drinks

Almost everyone does it: we’re so eager to enjoy that sizzling hot meal or boiling drink that we forget for a second that heat is, well, hot. One bite or swig of coffee later, and the roof of the mouth hurts because we’ve burned the palate’s soft mucosal tissues. Youch!

Minor burns on the mouth typically heal on their own. If the burn is severe, blisters form, or it heals slowly, see your dentist.

Trauma or Irritation

Mouth trauma is a leading cause of pain and tenderness in the oral cavity. Even the tiniest of impacts, such as eating a sharp corn chip, can cause cuts on the gums and hurt the roof of the mouth. Biting with extra force to eat hard food can cause a damaging impact, and it’s not unusual to scratch or poke the palate with straws, pencils, pens, or other foreign objects.

Viral or Bacterial Infections

Several infections can cause pain in the roof of the mouth. The bacteria that cause gingivitis can result in swollen, painful gums. Oral herpes is a viral infection that affects the mouth, specifically the palate and gums. Oral herpes typically presents with red and inflamed gums, accompanied by a fever spike. This condition is primarily seen in childhood.

Infections don't even need to be in your mouth to cause a sensitive palate. Sinus infections can cause inflammation of the sinus cavities, which puts pressure on the roof of your mouth, resulting in pain.

Allergies or Sensitivities

Some allergens can cause Oral Allergy Syndrome, which causes swelling, itchiness, and redness. OAS is most often a reaction to foods such as fruits, vegetables, and nuts.

Oral Thrush

Candida albicans are fungi, and a normal part of your oral flora (the microorganisms that make their home in your mouth). Antibiotics, poor oral hygiene, a weakened immune system, and certain medical conditions can lead to a population explosion of Candida albicans, resulting in an infection known as oral thrush.

If you find your tongue turning white, with a sore upper mouth roof and throat that hurts when you eat anything spicy, you may have oral thrush. The condition can also cause chapped lips and a temporary loss of taste and smell.

At-Home Treatment Options

Knowing how to treat a sore roof of the mouth at home helps provide relief. Try these at-home remedies:

Salt Water Rinses

Rinsing the mouth with a saltwater solution helps reduce inflammation and pain. Salt is a natural antiseptic, so rinsing helps clean the affected area and reduces the risk of further infection. Dissolve ½ teaspoon of salt in 1 cup of warm water, and gently rinse the inside of your mouth. Do not swallow the salt solution. You can rinse your mouth this way several times a day.

Over-the-Counter Gels or Rinses

Over-the-counter gels or rinses designed to treat mouth sores can provide temporary relief when the roof of your mouth hurts. Ibuprofen and acetaminophen can also help relieve pain.

Cool or Soft Foods

Hard, spicy, and acidic foods can irritate the inflamed area of the palate and worsen pain. While treating your sore mouth, opt for soft, bland foods instead.

When to See a Dentist or Doctor

While most mouth pain subsides naturally, see a dentist or doctor if any of the following apply:

Sores That Don’t Heal in 10–14 Days

Sores that don't heal within a couple of weeks should be checked to rule out causes such as nutritional deficiencies, persistent infections, and oral cancer.

Severe or Spreading Pain

Severe, long-lasting, or spreading pain should always be checked by your dentist.

Signs of Infection or Fever

Persistent swelling, the presence of pus, or a fever can accompany pain in the roof of the mouth. If you’re experiencing a combination of these symptoms, your condition may need some degree of medical intervention.

Need Help with Mouth Pain? Call Rodeo Dental!

If you’re having persistent mouth pain, contact a Rodeo Dental location. Our experienced dentists know how to treat a sore roof of the mouth and will help you get the relief you need.