K12: Stomatitis and related lesions

K12.0: Recurrent oral aphthae

Such wounds are also called aphthous ulcers. The exact cause of aphthous ulcer development is unknown. Stress, certain foods or inflammations may potentially encourage aphthous ulcers on the oral mucous membrane.

These wounds occur especially on the inside of the lips and gums. The affected sites typically have a gray-white appearance and are painful.

The aphthous ulcers normally heal on their own after a few days without scarring. Aphthous ulcers can appear repeatedly.