Mouth Ulcer Treatment Market Report by Formulation, Drug Class, Indication, and Region 2025-2033

The global mouth ulcer treatment market size reached USD 1.97 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach USD 2.55 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 2.74% during 2025-2033. The market is experiencing significant growth mainly driven by rising incidences of oral health issues, an increased awareness of treatment options and the growing demand for over-the-counter remedies. Advancements in pharmaceutical formulations, expanding healthcare access and consumer preference for fast-acting, pain-relief products to treat mouth ulcers are also contributing positively to the market growth.

Mouth Ulcer Treatment Market Analysis:

• Major Market Drivers: Key market drivers include the increasing prevalence of oral health issues like aphthous ulcers, rising awareness about available treatments, and the growing demand for over-the-counter remedies. The aging population, higher incidences of lifestyle-related conditions such as stress, and poor dietary habits contribute to the rise in mouth ulcers. Advancements in pharmaceutical formulations, including pain-relief gels, lozenges, and mouthwashes, are further fueling the market growth. Expanding access to healthcare and the growing consumer preference for quick, effective treatment options are also acting as significant factors driving the demand for mouth ulcer treatments globally.
• Key Market Trends: Key market trends include a growing shift toward natural and herbal remedies as consumers seek safer, side-effect-free treatments. The development of innovative formulations, such as fast-acting gels and dissolvable patches, is also gaining traction. Increased online sales of over-the-counter (OTC) treatments, driven by e-commerce growth, is another notable trend. Furthermore, the market is witnessing a rise in the demand for multi-functional products that offer pain relief, healing, and prevention. Pharmaceutical companies are increasingly focusing on developing treatments that cater to various types of ulcers, thereby enhancing both product efficacy and convenience for users.
• Geographical Trends: Geographical trends in the market shows significant growth in North America and Europe, driven by high healthcare awareness, advanced medical infrastructure, and the availability of over-the-counter products. The Asia-Pacific region is experiencing rapid market expansion due to rising healthcare access, increasing incidences of mouth ulcers, and growing consumer awareness about treatments. Countries like India and China are seeing an increased demand for both conventional and herbal remedies, fueled by large populations and improved healthcare services. In contrast, the Middle East and Africa region is gradually adopting more advanced treatments, though growth remains slower as compared to other regions.
• Competitive Landscape: Some of the major market players in the mouth ulcer treatment industry include Blistex Inc, Church & Dwight Co. Inc., 3M Company, Colgate-Palmolive Company, GSK plc., Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, and Pfizer Inc., among many others.
• Challenges and Opportunities: The market faces various challenges including the limited awareness of effective treatments in developing regions, the side effects associated with some pharmaceutical products, and competition from alternative remedies like home-based treatments. Regulatory hurdles and stringent approval processes for new formulations also pose challenges for market players. However, significant opportunities exist in the growing demand for natural and herbal remedies, which are perceived as safer by consumers. Expanding healthcare access in emerging markets and increasing investments in research and development to create more effective, fast-acting treatments also offer potential for growth in this sector.

Mouth Ulcer Treatment Market Trends:

Innovation in Formulations

Companies are developing fast-acting mouth ulcer treatments to address the consumer demand for quicker relief and healing. These innovations include topical gels, oral rinses, and medicated patches designed to minimize pain and accelerate recovery within hours. Advanced formulations focus on delivering targeted action through immediate absorption or sustained release, providing long-lasting effects. This trend is driven by consumer expectations for convenience, with products that offer swift relief while being easy to apply. These rapid solutions are also appealing in busy lifestyles where quick treatment without the need for prescriptions is highly valued. Furthermore, according to an article published in the European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics in 2024, the development of innovative eugenol and borax-based orodispersible films (ODFs) have emerged as the preferred alternative to traditional methods of treating oral diseases, including mouth ulcers, with a much more efficient results. ODFs are ultra-thin, stamp-sized, portably-used, patient-friendly, and hydrophilic films that dissolve and disintegrate within seconds on the tongue or buccal area without the need of water or swallowing. This administration is particularly prevalent among pediatric, geriatric, and special patient populations who have dysphagia.

Growth in E-Commerce Channels

Growth in e-commerce channels for mouth ulcer treatments is accelerating as more consumers shift toward online shopping for convenience. Online platforms offer a wider selection of products, including various natural, OTC, and specialized treatments, which may not be available in local pharmacies. Consumers benefit from the ease of comparing prices, reading reviews, and receiving products quickly, often with discounts or subscription services. Additionally, the rise of e-pharmacies and digital health platforms has contributed to the increased availability and accessibility of these treatments, boosting online sales in the market. For instance, according to IMARC, the global e-pharmacy market size reached US$ 94.2 Billion in 2023. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach US$ 314.1 Billion by 2032, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 14.32% during 2024-2032. Furthermore, Amazon Pharmacy announced in June 2024 that it intends to expand its subscription service to enrollees of Medicare insurance plans. The expansion will be available to more than 50 million Medicare beneficiaries, who will have access to RxPass, Amazon Pharmacy's subscription prescription service

Shift Towards Natural and Herbal Products

Consumers are increasingly turning to natural and herbal products for mouth ulcer treatment due to concerns about the potential side effects of synthetic medications. Ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, and licorice are favored for their soothing and healing properties. This shift is driven by a broader focus on wellness, as people prefer organic and chemical-free solutions that align with health-conscious lifestyles. The growing demand for such treatments is encouraging companies to develop more plant-based products that cater to this trend, making natural alternatives widely available across the market. According to the mouth ulcer treatment market overview, this rising consumer preference for natural and herbal remedies is expected to drive significant growth, with more companies investing in plant-based formulations to meet the increasing demand for organic, chemical-free solutions. For instance, in November 2023, UGM Dentistry students announced the development of eco-enzymes from fruit peels for mouth ulcer treatment. The team processed peels from various fruits and plants into eco-enzymes, aiming to accelerate mouth ulcer healing. Laboratory research on rats showed promising results, with the eco-enzyme patch reducing inflammatory cells in mouth ulcer wounds. While the research is in early stages and tested only on animals, further comprehensive studies are required to ensure its safety and efficacy for human use.

Mouth Ulcer Treatment Market Segmentation:

Breakup by Formulation:

• Gel
• Spray
• Mouthwash
• Lozenges

Gel accounts for the majority of the market share

According to mouth ulcer treatment market report, gel dominate the market due to their fast-acting and targeted relief. Their easy application and ability to form a protective barrier over the ulcer make them highly effective in soothing pain and accelerating healing. Gels often contain active ingredients like antiseptics, pain relievers, and anti-inflammatory agents, providing comprehensive treatment in a single application. Their ability to stay localized at the site of the ulcer allows for longer-lasting relief compared to other forms, such as mouthwashes or lozenges. This convenience and effectiveness have led to their widespread preference among consumers.

Breakup by Drug Class:

• Corticosteroids
• Anesthetics
• Analgesics
• Antimicrobials
• Antihistamines

Corticosteroids holds the largest share of the industry

Corticosteroids hold the largest share of the mouth ulcer treatment industry due to their powerful anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties. These medications effectively reduce swelling, pain, and irritation associated with mouth ulcers, promoting faster healing. Corticosteroids are often prescribed for severe or recurrent cases of ulcers, such as aphthous stomatitis, where over-the-counter treatments may be less effective. Their ability to target the underlying inflammation makes them a preferred choice among healthcare professionals. Additionally, advancements in topical corticosteroid formulations, like gels and ointments, have improved patient compliance by offering localized relief with minimal systemic side effects. These factors are creating a positive mouth ulcer treatment market outlook, driving the demand for corticosteroid-based products due to their efficacy in managing severe ulcer cases.

Breakup by Indication:

• Aphthous Stomatitis
• Oral Lichen Planus
• Others

Aphthous Stomatitis represents the leading market segment

Aphthous stomatitis, commonly known as canker sores, represents the leading segment in the mouth ulcer treatment market due to its high prevalence among individuals worldwide. This condition is characterized by recurrent, painful ulcers in the mouth, often triggered by stress, injury, or nutritional deficiencies. The demand for effective treatments, such as corticosteroids, gels, and antiseptic mouthwashes, is high as patients seek fast relief from discomfort and accelerated healing. The chronic and recurrent nature of aphthous stomatitis drives the consistent demand for both over-the-counter and prescription treatments. The mouth ulcer treatment market dynamics are further influenced by the need for innovative and accessible solutions to manage the chronic and recurrent nature of aphthous stomatitis, leading to continuous advancements in treatment options and increased competition among pharmaceutical companies. According to an article published in May 2023 by National Library of Medicine, approximately 25% of the global population is affected by recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS), a common oral mucosal disease. Factors such as genetics, nutritional deficiencies, stress, and immune dysfunction contribute to the condition. This high prevalence underscores the significant demand for effective treatments and preventive solutions in the market. As a result, pharmaceutical companies are focusing on developing targeted therapies that address the underlying causes of RAS while minimizing recurrence and improving patient outcomes.

Breakup by Region:

• North America
• Europe
• Asia Pacific
• Middle East and Africa
• Latin America

North America leads the market, accounting for the largest mouth ulcer treatment market share

The report has also provided a comprehensive analysis of all the major regional markets, which include North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa, Latin America. According to the report, North America represents the largest regional market for mouth ulcer treatment.

North America leads the global mouth ulcer treatment market, accounting for the largest share due to the region's high awareness of oral health and access to advanced healthcare services. The prevalence of conditions like aphthous stomatitis and other oral ulcers is significant, driving the demand for both over-the-counter and prescription treatments. The region's well-established pharmaceutical industry supports the development and availability of effective treatments, such as corticosteroids, gels, and mouthwashes. Additionally, the focus on research and innovation, along with favorable healthcare reimbursement policies, boosts market growth. The increasing preference for fast-acting, pain-relief products further strengthens North America's leadership in this market. According to mouth ulcer treatment market forecast, North America is expected to continue to lead, with steady growth driven by ongoing advancements in treatment options, rising demand for innovative therapies, and increasing awareness of oral health management. For instance, in November 2023, MidAmerica Pharmaceuticals introduced Kourzeq(TM), a new FDA-approved dental paste for treating canker sores. The paste, containing triamcinolone acetonide, is designed to provide temporary relief and adjunctive treatment for oral inflammatory and ulcerative lesions. Available exclusively through telehealth via BeyondMD, Kourzeq aims to make a positive impact on those suffering from canker sores.

Competitive Landscape:

• The market research report has also provided a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape in the market. Detailed profiles of all major companies have also been provided. Some of the major market players in the mouth ulcer treatment industry include Blistex Inc, Church & Dwight Co. Inc., 3M Company, Colgate-Palmolive Company, GSK plc., Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, and Pfizer Inc.
• The mouth ulcer treatment market is highly competitive, driven by the rising prevalence of oral conditions and an increased focus on self-care. Various treatment options, including topical gels, mouthwashes, and oral medications, cater to different types of ulcers and severity levels. Companies are focused on innovation, offering fast-acting and long-lasting solutions. The market is also witnessing an increasing demand for natural and herbal products as consumers become more health conscious. Price sensitivity, product effectiveness, and accessibility are key factors influencing consumer choice in this evolving market. The mouth ulcer treatment market growth rate is being accelerated by innovations in fast-acting treatments, the rising demand for natural products, and an increased consumer focus on self-care.

Key Questions Answered in This Report:

• How has the global mouth ulcer treatment market performed so far, and how will it perform in the coming years?
• What are the drivers, restraints, and opportunities in the global mouth ulcer treatment market?
• What is the impact of each driver, restraint, and opportunity on the global mouth ulcer treatment market?
• What are the key regional markets?
• Which countries represent the most attractive mouth ulcer treatment market?
• What is the breakup of the market based on the formulation?
• Which is the most attractive formulation in the mouth ulcer treatment market?
• What is the breakup of the market based on the drug class?
• Which is the most attractive drug class in the mouth ulcer treatment market?
• What is the breakup of the market based on the indication?
• Which is the most attractive indication in the mouth ulcer treatment market?
• What is the competitive structure of the market?
• Who are the key players/companies in the global mouth ulcer treatment market?