Your mouth is like a small eco-system. And on occasion that environment can produce conditions commonly known as canker sores.
Those aren't the only type of mouth sore (we'll cover a few of the common one's in a moment). Even so, sores can appear on the soft tissues of your mouth, on your lips, cheeks, gums, tongue, and the floor or roof of your mouth.
Among mouth sores, canker sores are the most common. Before we discuss how to deal with them specifically, let's clarify the various types of mouth sores, what causes them, and what to do about them.
What type of sore could that be in your mouth?
A canker sore
This is among the most common form of a mouth sore. A canker sore is typically small, round, and appears inside your mouth on the soft tissue areas.
Pain will accompany a canker sore. They are also identified by a white or yellow center and a red border.
Though painful or irritating, cankers are not contagious.
Cold sores or fever blisters
These mouth conditions are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1). You will most often experience them on your lips or around your mouth.
A cold sore/fever blister is fluid-filled - like a blister. And they can be painful in addition to being highly contagious.
Oral thrush
This is a fungal infection. It will reveal itself as white, creamy patches on your tongue, inner cheeks, and occasionally on the roof of your mouth, gums, and tonsils.
Thrush is common for infants, older adults, and those with a weakened immune system.
Leukoplakia
You'll notice this condition as a thick, white patch that forms on your gums, the bottom of your mouth, or the insides of your cheeks.
Leukoplakia can be caused by a chronic irritation, such as tobacco use. The condition is usually benign but could be precancerous.
What causes canker sores?
Several factors can cause a canker sore in your mouth though the exact cause isn't clear.
Certain triggers can contribute to the development of canker sores.
- An injury to your mouth such as biting the inside of your cheek, a dental procedure, or brushing your teeth aggressively.
- Stress and hormonal changes - especially in women - can prompt a canker to develop.
- Nutritional or vitamin deficiencies such as low levels of B-12, zinc, folic acid, and iron can increase your risk.
- Food sensitivities to those that are acidic or spicy can trigger a canker sore's development.
- Underlying health conditions such as celiac disease, Crohn's disease, and some gastrointestinal disorders are linked to canker sores.
How to treat canker sores
Most canker sores heal on their own within one to two weeks. Beyond natural healing there are a few effective treatments that can reduce your pain and speed the healing process.
Topical treatment
Over-the-counter topical solutions including benzocaine (Anbesol) or hydrogen peroxide rinses can deliver pain relief and help reduce the inflammation associated with canker sores.
Mouth rinses
Certain rinses containing lidocaine and other proven ingredients can help reduce the pain and inflammation from a canker sore.
You can also use saltwater or baking soda rinses to provide some relief.
Nutritional supplements
Since some canker sores could be traceable to a specific vitamin deficiency a dental professional could recommend supplements. B-vitamins, zinc, or iron are useful for helping prevent the future development of canker sores.
Dietary awareness
Be aware of the foods that can trigger a canker sore. Monitor your intake of spicy, acidic, or abrasive foods.
Good oral hygiene
Consistent brushing, flossing, and routine preventive dental care can help prevent oral infections like canker sores.
Dental and/or medical care
A severe or persistent experience with canker sores could require the assistance of a dental or medical professional. They can diagnose the root cause and provide stronger treatment to eliminate and prevent canker sore development.
The discomfort associated with canker sores or other mouth sore conditions is a good reason to seek treatment.
An online dental consultation gives you an immediate and convenient option for your questions relative to mouth sores.
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