Peptic ulcers and your mouth

 

Historically, doctors believed that peptic ulcers were caused by stress or acidic foods. They now know that peptic ulcers—sores in the lining of your stomach or small intestine—are often the result of a bacterium called Helicobacter pylori, or H. pylori. These bacteria can weaken the protective coating of your stomach. This allows acid in the digestive system to damage the lining of your stomach and cause a sore. The most common symptom is a burning pain in your stomach.

Interestingly, a common treatment for a peptic ulcer can affect your mouth. And medications used to treat dental issues can lead to a peptic ulcer.

How Treatment for an Ulcer Can Affect Your Mouth

If you have a peptic ulcer, your doctor may recommend that you take bismuth subsalicylate (such as Pepto-Bismol) to eliminate H. pylori. Although it’s a harmless side effect, bismuth subsalicylate can cause the surface of the tongue to turn black temporarily.

How Dental Treatment Can Lead to an Ulcer

If you experience pain in your mouth or are recovering from oral surgery, your dentist may prescribe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen. Although most peptic ulcers are due to an infection with H. pylori, taking NSAIDs for a long time can also lead to an ulcer. NSAIDs can cause ulcers by hindering the stomach’s ability to protect itself from acidic digestive juices. Ulcers usually heal once you stop taking NSAIDs.

 

 

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“Ulcers: Treatment.” American Academy of Family Physicians. http://familydoctor.org/familydoctor/en/diseases-conditions/ulcers/treatment.html. Accessed 2013.

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