Is Stomatitis Contagious or Not: When It Is Transmitted from Person to Person

The word "stomatitis" unites inflammations of the oral mucosa that differ in nature, so there is no single answer to the question of whether stomatitis is contagious. Much depends on what exactly caused the ulcers or redness. Below is a calm comparison of the options: which of them are transmitted from person to person, and which remain a personal reaction of the body.

What stomatitis is and why the question of contagiousness is ambiguous

Stomatitis is an inflammation of the oral cavity and lips, which may include redness of the mucosa and single or multiple ulcers. Its mechanism of occurrence has not been fully studied; most likely, it is associated with the immune system's reaction to irritants, when lymphocytes attack molecules it does not recognize. Stomatitis itself is not contagious, but the cause that triggers it may be contagious — for example, in herpes, stomatitis occurs as a consequence of a reaction to the herpes simplex virus. That is why the question "is stomatitis contagious or not" requires clarification: which type is being discussed.

When the cause of stomatitis may be contagious

The cause causing stomatitis may be contagious — for example, a virus. Vesicular stomatitis is caused by an RNA-containing virus of the genus Vesiculorus of the family Rhabdoviridae and is described as contagious. Herpetic stomatitis develops against the background of the herpes simplex virus: it begins with a sharp rise in temperature and drowsiness, blisters appear on the mucosa, which burst after 3 days, and the illness lasts about 8 days.

Which stomatitis types are not transmitted from person to person

Aphthous stomatitis is painful round ulcerations with a white or beige fibrinous coating and red inflamed mucosa around them; aphthae usually heal within 1–1.5 weeks without scars. Its causes are cited as bacteria or viruses, microtrauma, burns, weakened immunity. Traumatic stomatitis is associated with damage to the mucosa, catarrhal — with insufficient hygiene, dry mouth, fungi of the genus Candida and bacteria. Allergic stomatitis reflects a reaction to an irritant. Mouth ulcers are not contagious and should not be confused with cold sores on the lips, which are caused by the herpes virus. Aphthous ulcers are also not contagious.

How infection occurs and who is at risk

In the pathogenesis of stomatitis, a period of infection is distinguished with an incubation period of 2 to 4 days, when the pathogen, through trauma, a burn, infection, allergy or hormonal disorder, weakens the immune system. In patients with weakened immunity, a secondary infection may occur. Predisposing factors for stomatitis include insufficient or excessive hygiene, poorly fitted dentures (according to statistics, 65% of elderly people with dentures suffer from stomatitis), smoking, hormonal fluctuations, stress.

• Vesicular stomatitis is described as contagious.
• Aphthous ulcers are not transmitted from person to person.
• Mouth ulcers should not be confused with cold sores on the lips.

How to distinguish the type of stomatitis: the role of examination and diagnosis

There are as yet no special tests — biopsy or culture — to identify stomatitis. The doctor studies the medical record and examines the oral cavity: the appearance of the ulcers, their location and the recurrence of the disease are important. In typical stomatitis, the tissue around the ulcer looks healthy, and there are no pronounced systemic symptoms. In advanced forms, especially in children, there may be multiple ulcers, fever and deterioration of well-being. An ulcer that persists for longer than 3 weeks, looks unusual, bleeds or becomes more painful and redder requires examination.

When to see a doctor

One consults a dentist or physician if an ulcer does not resolve for longer than 3 weeks, differs from previous ones (larger than usual or closer to the posterior wall of the pharynx), bleeds or becomes more painful and redder. Ulcers in other places on the body, including the skin and genital organs, and painful, red or swollen joints are also considered a reason. Most ulcers resolve on their own within one to two weeks, but the decision on management is made by the patient together with the doctor.

The presence of stomatitis itself is not a reason to call an ambulance; 103 or 112 — in a life-threatening condition.

The material is for reference: it helps to understand the types of stomatitis, but does not replace consultation with a doctor, who will examine the oral cavity and determine the cause.

This content is for reference and does not replace a doctor's consultation. Medical disclaimer