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Canker sores, or aphthous ulcers, may be small, but they pack a surprising bit of pain. The tiny ulcers show up inside your mouth and can make everyday activities like speech, eating, or drinking rather unpleasant. Unlike cold sores, which show up on the lips and are brought on by the herpes virus, canker sores are not contagious. Nevertheless, they can ruin your day when they arrive. The solution to coping with them is learning what could cause them, just how to treat them, and tips on preventing them from coming back.
Common Causes of Canker Sores
No one knows the exact cause, but several factors are known to trigger them:
- Minor mouth injuries: Accidentally biting your cheek, brushing your teeth too hard, or irritation from braces or dental work.
- Stress: Emotive stress or anxious feelings can also render one vulnerable to developing sores.
- Deficiencies in nutrients: Lack of iron, zinc, folic acid, or vitamin B12 can raise the risk.
- Sensitivity to food: Spicy or sour foods such as citrus, tomatoes, or coffee may cause sores on sensitive mouths.
- Changes in hormones: Some women feel them during certain periods of a menstrual cycle.
- Health conditions: Conditions such as celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, or a weakened immune system can cause canker sores to become more frequent.
Treatment Options
Typically, most canker ulcers recover on their own within one to two weeks, but certain measures can be taken to lessen discomfort and recover faster:
- Over-the-counter medications: Rinses, pastes, or gels that contain benzocaine or hydrogen peroxide to desensitize pain and soothe the sore.
- Rinse with salt water: Rinsing with a warm solution of salt can minimize swelling and promote healing.
- Avoid irritants: Stay away from spicy, acidic, or rough-textured foods until the sore is gone.
- Pain medications: ibuprofen, over the counter, can be used to minimize pain.
- Prescription treatment: Stronger gels, medicated mouthwashes, or oral steroids for severe or recurrent lesions.
Visit a dentist if:
- A sore is abnormally sized.
- Its duration is over three weeks.
- You have a fever or are having trouble swallowing.
Prevention Advice
Even simple adjustments to your daily schedule can really make a difference:
- Practice good oral hygiene: Gently brush your teeth with a soft toothbrush and floss daily without aggravating your gums.
- Have a balanced diet: Ensure that you get plenty of vitamins and minerals daily.
- Reduce stress: Exercise, a hobby, or a stress-reduction technique can assist in decreasing stress-related blisters.
- Track your triggers: Keep a food journal to figure out what might be causing your sores.
- Protect your mouth: If you’re wearing braces, use orthodontic wax on sharpened edges.
Final Thoughts
Canker sores are a pesky issue, but they don’t have to be all-consuming. When you know what makes them occur, find the appropriate treatment, and get into a couple of habits to keep them from appearing as frequently—and help them resolve faster when they do—a lot can be done to keep your mouth pain-free and comfortable. For personalized care and expert advice, visit Robstown Smiles, your trusted dentist in Robstown, TX, and take the first step toward a healthier, more comfortable smile.