Usually when one suffers with things like stomach aches, cramps, diarrhea or constipation it usually sorts itself out within a day or two. However, there are those who have to struggle with these issues for a very long time, like the people who are suffering with Crohn’s disease. WebMD explains that it is an inflammatory bowel disease where your immune system attacks your gastrointestinal track (GI track) cells as it may view them as a threat. The symptoms are not just limited to your bowel system, but they can also manifest in your mouth. Dealing with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can be tough, and it's not just about tummy troubles. You might be wondering why Crohn's disease, a type of IBD, can make you more likely to get mouth ulcers. How Does Crohn's Disease Affect Your Mouth? Your body's systems are connected in more ways than you might think. Crohn's disease primarily affects your digestive system, which is a long and complex network throughout your body. Because of this widespread impact, Crohn's can cause problems beyond just your stomach and intestines. This includes redness, swelling, or even sores appearing anywhere along your digestive tract, and yes, that includes inside your mouth. So, even though it's not a stomach problem, mouth ulcers can be another way Crohn's disease affects you. Why Crohn's Can Lead to Mouth Sores According to Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation there are a couple of main reasons why people with Crohn's disease might get more mouth ulcers Ongoing SwellingThe constant inflammation that is a key part of Crohn's disease throughout your digestive system can also make you more prone to developing sores inside your mouth. This internal swelling can create an environment where ulcers are more likely to form. Poor Nutrition Due to Diet Issues Sometimes, when you have Crohn's disease, your appetite can be affected, making it hard to eat enough of the right foods to get all the vitamins and nutrients your body needs. Not getting enough nutrition can weaken your body's defenses and make you more susceptible to infections, including those in your gums and mouth, which can lead to ulcers. How To Identify Crohn’s Mouth Sores? The American Dental Association (ADA) says that the mouth ulcers that people with Crohn's disease get are similar to regular canker sores but are technically a bit different. The Mayo Clinic describes typical canker sores, also called aphthous ulcers, as small and oval-shaped with a red border. They show up on the soft lining inside your mouth and are not contagious. The mouth ulcers that people with Crohn's get often look and feel very much the same. Tips for Managing and Soothing Mouth Ulcers The National Health Service (NHS) says that most regular mouth ulcers will heal on their own within one to two weeks. However, for people with Crohn's disease, these sores might take longer to go away. You might even feel a bit of irritation or discomfort in your mouth before an actual ulcer appears. Besides being annoying and sometimes painful, mouth ulcers can also increase the chance of getting an infection in your mouth. While there's no quick fix to make them disappear instantly, there are definitely things you can do to make them less bothersome and help them heal faster like Brush gently See your dentist regularly Avoid irritating foods Don't chew gum