Description: An ulcer by definition is a localized area on the skin or mucosa in which the surface epithelium has been destroyed. The shape and size of traumatic ulcers are so variable as to defy a simple description. They are usually painful and of short duration.
Etiology: Common causes of traumatic ulcers include: denture irritation, biting injuries, hard foods, chemicals, toothbrush and dry cotton rolls.
Treatment: The treatment is to remove the cause if it is known. Relief of pain can be achieved with topical anesthetics such as Orabase with Benzocaine.
Prognosis: The ulcer should heal if the cause is removed. An ulcer which does not heal within two to three weeks should be biopsied to rule out malignancy.
Differential diagnosis: Traumatic ulcers must be differentiated from squamous carcinoma and ulcerative mucosal diseases such as lichen planus