K00-K14: Diseases of oral cavity, salivary glands and jaws

K12: Stomatitis and related lesions

Stomatitis refers to any inflammatory condition affecting the mouth, which can include the cheeks, gums, tongue, lips, and floor or roof of the mouth. This group of conditions can be caused by numerous factors, such as infections, injury, dry mouth, or certain medications. Viral or bacterial infections are commonly transmitted through close personal contact, while certain forms of stomatitis, like canker sores, are not contagious. Symptoms typically consist of mouth pain, sores, or swelling, with severity ranging from minor irritation to significant discomfort. Some types of stomatitis may heal naturally over time, but others, like herpetic stomatitis, can recur periodically. It's important to note that this group of conditions impacts the digestive system, as the mouth plays a key role in breaking down food for digestion.