Canker sores are uncomfortable and when you have one, all you can think of is getting rid of it! Here is some helpful information about canker sores: what causes them, how to prevent them, and how to make them go away.
What Are Canker Sores?
Canker sores are small, shallow ulcers in your mouth that make eating and talking uncomfortable. If you have a canker sore, you’ll find a painful round sore that’s white with a red border on the inside your mouth, either on your soft palate, the inside of your cheeks, or your tongue.
Simple canker sores are the most common type and appear 3-4 times a year, each occurrence lasting about a week. Complex canker sores are much less common and occur more frequently throughout the year.
What Causes Canker Sores?
While we don’t know exactly what causes canker sores, stress and tissue injury are thought to be some of the biggest contributors. Acidic foods and nutritional deficiencies can also trigger canker sores or make them worse. A sharp tooth or dental appliance like braces can also cause an outbreak.
How Do I Get Rid of Canker Sores?
Canker sores are usually only painful for a few days and then heal without treatment in about a week or so. If the canker sore is persistent and you want to relieve the pain, there are several things you can do:
- Rinse your mouth with water & salt or baking soda
- Dab a small amount of milk of magnesia on the sore a few times a day
- Avoid acidic, spicy & abrasive foods
- Apply ice to your canker sores
- Brush your teeth gently with a soft brush 2 times a day, 2 minutes each time
- Use over-the-counter products, like zinc lozenges & ibuprofen, to relieve pain
- You can get a prescription mouthwash from Dr. Game if you have multiple canker sores at once
What If My Canker Sore Is Severe?
If you have a severe canker sore, one that may be causing a fever, swollen lymph nodes, and physical sluggishness, your sore may need to be treated with dental lasers. This will provide relief of symptoms almost immediately.
How Can I Prevent Future Canker Sores?
There is no cure for canker sores, but you can reduce their appearances:
- Get sufficient vitamins & minerals in your diet
- Avoid irritation of your mouth from gum chewing
- Brush with a soft-bristled brush & floss daily
- Limit your consumption of acidic & spicy foods
Contact Us for Emergency Care!
Call us ASAP if your canker sores are unusually large, are spreading, have lasted 3 weeks or longer, and if you’re suffering from intolerable pain or high fever. At Stono Dental Care, we’re dedicated to finding the right treatment for you.