Canker sores are a common oral condition. These painful, round lesions usually appear on the cheek, gums, tongue, and inner lip. They are often caused by digestive disorders, food sensitivities, and mouth injuries. They can be treated with a mouth rinse containing sodium bicarbonate and saltwater. There are also antiseptic mouthwashes available that contain hydrogen peroxide.
Symptoms of a canker sore
A canker sore is a painful sore that develops inside your mouth. They can occur on the tongue, lips, inner cheeks, or the roof of the mouth. They are usually small, round, and white, and can sometimes be connected to nutritional deficiencies. Though painful, they are not contagious and are not caused by infection. However, if you experience these symptoms regularly, you should see a doctor.
While canker sores usually last less than a week, it is a good idea to see a doctor if they last longer than two weeks or occur more than twice or three times per year. Your doctor will want to examine you and get a medical history. Blood tests can also be taken to determine the cause.
The symptoms of a canker sore begin with a red, irritated bump in the mouth. These sores can be painful and can be as large as half an inch across. The sore can also be precancerous.
Treatments
Treating canker sores can be difficult, but there are several home remedies and strategies that can relieve the pain and discomfort. A good canker sore treatment focuses on reducing the symptoms and supporting the healing process. Home remedies can relieve pain and help prevent further outbreaks of canker sores.
A canker sore can develop on any part of the mouth, including the tongue, lips, inner cheeks, or the roof of the mouth. They may appear as small, round, white ulcers. They are not contagious, and they do not usually lead to an infection.
One effective way to treat canker sores is to avoid foods that trigger the outbreak. Eating a diet rich in vitamins and minerals may help reduce the incidence of these ulcers. Also, switching to a toothpaste without sodium lauryl sulfate can help prevent the outbreak of canker sores.
Causes
Although painful, canker sores generally go away on their own. However, if you experience several of these sores at a time, you should consider seeing your doctor. Your doctor will be able to prescribe topical medications that can help you manage your symptoms. If you have a severe case, your doctor may also prescribe systemic medications, such as antibiotics.
You can prevent recurrence of canker sores by eating a well-balanced diet rich in vitamins. Also, avoid using toothpaste with sodium lauryl sulfate, which may trigger a canker sore. You should also limit your intake of alcohol and control your stress level.
Medications may be prescribed to reduce the pain and inflammation caused by a canker sore. These medications should be prescribed by a doctor and should be used according to instructions. In the event that a canker sore develops into an infection, a doctor may prescribe topical antibiotics. Symptoms of an infection include crusting, redness, and pus discharge.
Prevention
Symptoms of canker sores can be prevented or managed by a healthy diet that is rich in vitamins. Avoiding spicy foods is a good way to treat and prevent these sores. You can also use pain medications to soothe the pain. If these measures are not successful, you should consult with a medical professional.
Your doctor can help you prevent canker sores and provide a treatment plan. Generally, your doctor will ask about your symptoms and examine the lining of your mouth. Other treatments may include vitamin supplements and antimicrobial mouthwash. For more serious cases, you may need a systemic drug.
Prevention of canker sores can include avoiding spicy foods and drinking plenty of water. You should also make sure that you brush your teeth gently, which can help prevent sores from forming. A dentist can also help you determine the cause of your sores.