Go to a doctor now if: Ulcers with high fever, ulcers all over mouth with refusal to drink (dehydration risk), ulcers lasting >2 weeks, or recurring often — see a doctor/dentist.
Food-first comfort
Cool soft bland foods — curd, custard, mashed banana, cool milk, khichdi; extra fluids; avoid spicy, sour, salty and crunchy foods during flare. A little honey dabbed on the ulcer (1y+).
What to nourish
B-vitamin and iron foods (dal, egg, greens), curd, soft fruit.
Never
No honey under 1y. No adult mouth ulcer gels/strong antiseptics for young children without advice. Avoid acidic foods that sting.
Care at home
Most mouth ulcers heal in 1-2 weeks. Keep the child eating soft cool foods and well hydrated. Check for a sharp tooth or vitamin gap if recurrent.
Related guides
Teething DiscomfortBad BreathEarly Tooth Decay Prevention - Diet & HygieneSore Gums / Mild Gingivitis (Supportive)
When to see a doctor. Children are not small adults. This guide offers food-first comfort for a parent to consider; it gives no medicines, doses or supplements for children. A paediatrician decides on treatment. When in doubt, go.
