Mouth Ulcer Treatment Market By Formulation (Sprays, Mouthwash, Gels, Lozenges, and Ointments), By Drug Class (Antimicrobial, Antihistamine, Analgesics & Corticosteroids, and Others), By Indication (Aphthous Stomatitis, Oral Lichen Planus, Oral Candidiasis, and Other Indications), By Distribution Channel (Hospital Pharmacies, Retail Pharmacies, and Online Pharmacies), Region and Companies – Industry Segment Outlook, Market Assessment, Competition Scenario, Trends and Forecast 2024-2033

Report Overview

The Mouth Ulcer Treatment Market size is expected to be worth around USD 1.8 billion by 2033 from USD 1.2 billion in 2023, growing at a CAGR of 4.1% during the forecast period 2024 to 2033.

Rising awareness about oral hygiene and the growing geriatric population are expected to drive market growth. Ulcers, painful lesions that appear on the mucous membrane of the mouth, are influenced by factors such as increased synthetic product usage (e.g., toothpaste) and unhealthy lifestyles (including junk food and tobacco consumption). Additionally, the prevalence of dental and oral conditions contributes to the demand for ulcer treatment products.

However, public awareness remains low regarding the potential cancer risk associated with untreated mouth ulcers. Healthcare professionals are actively working to raise awareness and prevent harmful effects from ulcers. Market players are responding to rising demand by launching innovative products and forming partnerships.

For example, in September 2022, Mucocort AB partnered with Aurena Laboratories to produce a pain relief patch for aphthous stomatitis (mouth ulcers). This MDR class II product accelerates natural healing and relieves pain by absorbing the ulcer’s ‘inflammatory soup.’ Such initiatives are shaping the market’s future.

Key Takeaways

• In 2023, the market for Mouth Ulcer Treatment generated a revenue of USD 2 billion, with a CAGR of 4.1%, and is expected to reach USD 1.8 billion by the year 2033.
• The formulation segment is divided into sprays, mouthwash, gels, lozenges, and ointments, with gels taking the lead in 2023 with a market share of 37.1%.
• Considering drug class, the market is divided into antimicrobial, antihistamine, analgesics & corticosteroids, and others. Among these, analgesics & corticosteroids held a significant share of 38.7%.
• Furthermore, concerning the indication segment, the market is segregated into aphthous stomatitis, oral lichen planus, oral candidiasis, and other indications. The aphthous stomatitis sector stands out as the dominant player, holding the largest revenue share of 44.8% in the mouth ulcer treatment market.
• The distribution channel segment is segregated into hospital pharmacies, retail pharmacies, and online pharmacies, with the retail pharmacies segment leading the market, holding a revenue share of 48.2%.
• North America led the market by securing a market share of 35.9% in 2023.

Formulation Analysis

The gels segment led in 2023, claiming a market share of 37.1%. Mouth ulcer gels typically contain local anesthetics like benzocaine or lidocaine, providing immediate pain relief by numbing the ulcerated area. This alleviates discomfort during eating, speaking, and oral hygiene.

Gels also create a protective barrier over the ulcer, shielding it from further irritation caused by food, beverages, and oral bacteria. This barrier supports healing by allowing the ulcerated tissue to regenerate without additional trauma. Some gels include anti-inflammatory corticosteroids, which reduce inflammation and swelling associated with mouth ulcers, further aiding pain relief and healing.

Drug Class Analysis

The analgesics & corticosteroids held a significant share of 38.7% due to the widespread prescription of these products as painkillers globally. They are commonly used for treating dental sores.

Corticosteroids possess anti-inflammatory properties, reducing inflammation caused by infections. Additionally, they interact with intracellular receptors, modulating gene expression and inhibiting microbial action. Given their reliability for various oral issues, analgesics and corticosteroids remain highly prescribed by doctors worldwide, contributing to the segment’s lucrative growth.

Indication Analysis

The aphthous stomatitis segment had a tremendous growth rate, with a revenue share of 44.8%. Treatment options, including topical analgesics, deliver immediate relief from discomfort and pain associated with aphthous stomatitis. This alleviates discomfort during eating, speaking, and oral hygiene.

Topical treatments, like corticosteroid gels or pastes, reduce inflammation as well as promote faster healing. This accelerates symptom resolution and shortens the length of ulcer episodes. Properly managing aphthous stomatitis is crucial for preventing complications like secondary infections or the formation of larger, more painful ulcers. This significance is amplified in individuals with compromised immune systems or systemic conditions, contributing to the market’s growth.

Distribution Channel Analysis

The retail pharmacies segment grew at a substantial rate, generating a revenue portion of 48.2% due to the increasing consumer preference for convenient and accessible healthcare services. Retail pharmacies offer easy access to OTC mouth ulcer treatments, allowing consumers to self-medicate and manage symptoms effectively.

The segment benefits from the expanding network of retail pharmacies, especially in emerging markets, making treatment more widely available. Additionally, retail pharmacies often provide counseling and guidance on treatment options, enhancing the consumer experience and driving sales.

Key Market Segments

By Formulation

• Sprays
• Mouthwash
• Gels
• Lozenges
• Ointments

By Drug Class

• Antimicrobial
• Antihistamine
• Analgesics & Corticosteroids
• Others

By Indication

• Aphthous stomatitis
• Oral lichen planus
• Oral candidiasis
• Other indications

By Distribution Channel

• Hospital pharmacies
• Retail pharmacies
• Online pharmacies

Drivers

Rise in Global Geriatric Population

The increasing global geriatric population is expected to drive market growth as older adults are more prone to mouth ulcers due to age-related factors like reduced saliva production, dental issues, and medication side effects. Additionally, the elderly often experience delayed healing, making treatment more challenging.

Consequently, the growing geriatric population increases the demand for effective mouth ulcers treatments, such as topical gels and oral medications. According to World Population Prospects 2022, the proportion of the global population aged 65 and older is projected to rise from 10% in 2022 to 16% in 2050. Additionally, the number of individuals aged 80 years and above is estimated to triple from 143 million to 426 million between 2020 and 2050.

Restraints

Lack of Dental Health Awareness

The lack of proper dental health awareness hinders the market by delaying diagnosis and treatment, leading to prolonged suffering and reduced market growth. Limited knowledge about dental problems, treatments, and practices in developing or underdeveloped economies favors the use of low-cost alternatives or home remedies.

Patients in countries like China, India, South Africa, and Brazil often prefer home remedies such as honey, clove oil, and saltwater over the prescribed medications. This preference acts as a significant restraint on market growth.

Opportunities

Increasing Use of Synthetic Chemicals in Foods and Dental Care Products

The mouth ulcer treatment market benefits from an increasing number of people experiencing oral and dental issues due to synthetic chemicals in food and dental care products. Foods with high acidity, spiciness, or sharp edges can cause mouth ulcers, driving demand for treatment products.

Similarly, dental care products containing harsh ingredients like sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) can irritate the mouth and lead to ulcers. Failing to diagnose or treat dental problems early can lead to cancer. Healthcare professionals conduct awareness initiatives and tests to educate people about the harmful effects of mouth ulcers. Institutions like the Maryland Department of Health recognize April as Oral Cancer Awareness Month, promoting screenings for this type of cancer.

Impact of Macroeconomic / Geopolitical Factors

Macroeconomic and geopolitical factors exert a significant influence on the Mouth Ulcer Treatment market, shaping its growth trajectory and dynamics. Macroeconomic factors such as increasing healthcare spending, economic growth, and rising disposable income are likely to drive the market in the years to come.

Geopolitical factors such as trade agreements and partnerships, facilitate access to new markets and collaborations. However, economic downturns, trade tensions, and political instability can lead to reduced healthcare spending and market uncertainty. On the positive side, Government initiatives and investments in healthcare infrastructure support market growth.

Latest Trends

Development of Novel Mouth Ulcer Medications

Pharmaceutical companies are developing a range of medications, including pastes, creams, antibiotic mouthwashes, and gels, to prevent recurring oral ulcers. Notable products like Orajel Mouth Sore Gel, Oralixir Mouth Wash, and Cloratin mouth paint are available in the market for treating these ulcers. These companies are also working on innovative drugs with fewer side effects and faster healing properties.

Additionally, ongoing research explores the effectiveness of herbal products in treating aphthous ulcers. Various nations are conducting oral health programs and awareness campaigns to educate the public about ulcer symptoms and causes. Healthcare professionals are actively promoting awareness of the harmful effects associated with mouth ulcers. This collective effort is expected to drive market growth in the coming years.

Regional Analysis

North America is leading the Mouth Ulcer Treatment Market

North America dominated the market with the highest revenue share of 35.9% due to increasing awareness among the population about effective mouth ulcer treatments. Rising demand for these treatments, driven by a higher prevalence rate, is expected to fuel market growth in the coming years. Additionally, the adoption of technology such as intra-oral cameras, digital X-rays, optical scanners, and computer-assisted designs in dentistry contributes to the expansion of this market segment in the region. Intra-oral cameras, for example, reveal hidden dental defects and are increasingly used by dental professionals.

Notably, companies like MouthWatch and Air Techniques Inc. have introduced advanced intra-oral camera products, enhancing diagnostic capabilities for dentists. MouthWatch launched a high-definition intra-oral camera at SmileCon 2021 in Las Vegas. Furthermore, Air Techniques Inc. launched several products, including the ScanX duo touch scanner and the SensorX intraoral sensor, at CDA, San Francisco. These cameras aid the dentist with a clear view of the patient’s mouth condition.

The Asia Pacific region is expected to experience the highest CAGR during the forecast period

Asia Pacific is expected to grow with the fastest CAGR owing to the increasing awareness about oral hygiene and supportive government programs. China, India, and Japan are expected to be the key contributors to this growth, with expanding middle-class populations and improving healthcare infrastructure. With the region’s large population rapid urbanization, and adoption of Western lifestyles, the region is poised for promising growth.

Additionally, untapped potential and greater recognition of branded products contribute to the expansion of the regional market. In August 2022, ICPA Health Products, one of the prominent key players located in India, unveiled the Trioplast anti-ulcer dental paste. This paste contains triamcinolone acetonide as its primary chemical component. Triamcinolone acetonide effectively reduces mouth irritation and inflammation by minimizing the body’s allergic reactions.

Key Regions and Countries

• North America
  • US
  • Canada
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • The UK
  • Spain
  • Italy
  • Russia
  • Netherland
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • India
  • Australia
  • New Zealand
  • Singapore
  • Thailand
  • Vietnam
  • Rest of APAC
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Rest of Latin America
• Middle East & Africa
  • South Africa
  • Saudi Arabia
  • UAE
  • Rest of MEA

Key Players Analysis

The major players in the Mouth Ulcer Treatment market are actively engaged in the development and introduction of innovative products, as well as implementing strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing their competitive positioning. In February 2022, Listerine, a brand within the J&J portfolio, launched Listerine Cool Mint Zero Mouthwash Concentrate, a sustainable mouthwash format. This eco-conscious product uses 60% less plastic and generates fewer carbon emissions compared to a standard 500-mL bottle of Listerine mouthwash.

Top Key Players in the Mouth Ulcer Treatment Market

• 3M Company
• Blistex Inc.
• Bristol Myers Squibb Company
• Church & Dwight Co. Inc.
• Colgate-Palmolive Company
• Dental Herb Company
• Reddy’s Laboratories Limited
• Forward Science
• GSK plc
• Johnson & Johnson
• Patterson Companies, Inc.
• Prestige Consumer Healthcare Inc.
• Pfizer Inc.
• Prince Care Pharma Pvt Ltd
• Taro Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.

Recent Developments

• In September 2022, Mucocort AB, a key market player based in Sweden, launched a self-absorbing patch for pain relief specifically for individuals suffering from recurring mouth ulcers, known as aphthous stomatitis.
• In September 2022, the Dow University of Health Sciences conducted a clinical trial titled ‘Therapeutic Effect of Folic Acid in Healing of Oral Ulcers.’ The study focused on evaluating the role of topical folic acid in treating oral ulcerations.

Report Scope