Canker sores, or aphthous ulcers, are small but painful lesions that can appear inside your mouth.[1] They are more of a nuisance than a health problem, but they make daily activities like eating, drinking, and talking painful. These mouth sores can affect anyone and are among the most common oral health complaints, but they typically won’t require a visit to a general dentist in Webster.
Minor canker sores typically heal independently within a week or two. While maintaining a daily oral hygiene routine is crucial to healing, you can try a few home remedies to expedite it.
What Is a Canker Sore?
A canker sore is usually a shallow, round ulcer that forms on the inside of the cheeks, lips, or along the tongue. It starts as a white or yellowish lesion with a red border. Unlike cold sores, which appear outside the mouth and are caused by the herpes virus, these mouth sores are not contagious.
Approximately 20% of people in the United States have had a canker sore at some point.[2] The exact cause isn’t always evident, but a few factors are known to trigger outbreaks. Those factors are:
- Stress
- Hormonal changes
- Spicy or acidic foods
- Medications
- Smoking
- Vitamin or mineral deficiencies impacting the immune system
An injury, like irritation from braces or biting the inside of your cheek, can also cause a canker sore to develop.
Types of Canker Sores
Although they all appear inside the mouth, there is more than one type of canker sore.
Minor Canker Sores
The most common type of canker sore is minor.[1] Minor canker sores are small, typically oval-shaped lesions with a red border. They measure less than one centimeter in diameter and can heal in as little as a week.
Major Canker Sores
Major canker sores are larger than minor canker sores but are less common. They have unrefined borders and can last for several weeks. You may notice a scar after this type of mouth sore.
Herpetiform Canker Sores
Even though their name suggests it, Herpetiform canker sores do not develop because of an infection with the herpes virus.[1] This type of mouth sore is more common in older patients but rarely occurs. It is about the size of a pinpoint and has irregular edges.
Sometimes, these sores appear in groups of 10 to 100 but eventually merge into a single, large sore. They can cause extreme pain but heal within several weeks.
How You Can Treat Canker Sores in Webster, NY
Most canker sores heal independently, but there are ways to minimize discomfort and speed up healing. Some home remedies may bring you relief. Try these techniques to manage pain from a canker sore.
OTC Products
Over-the-counter (OTC) topical gels and creams can contain benzocaine or hydrocortisone that reduce inflammation and numb the area. These work best for minor canker sores.
Mouth Rinses
Antimicrobial mouth rinses can help prevent infection and promote healing. Some may contain hydrogen peroxide or dexamethasone to soothe irritation.
Avoid Trigger Foods and Beverages
Some foods and drinks can increase the chances of developing a canker sore or irritate lesions already in your mouth. Avoiding spicy or acidic foods and beverages can help the ulcer heal faster.
Medical Grade Treatments
Your general dentist in Webster may recommend something more potent than OTC treatment for large or persistent canker sores. They might give you prescription-strength mouth rinses, corticosteroid creams, or oral medication.
When to See a General Dentist in Webster
While most canker sores are harmless, seeking professional help may sometimes be necessary. If the ulcers are larger, last more than three weeks, or recur frequently, schedule an appointment with a dentist.
The dentist will thoroughly examine your mouth before diagnosing. You’ll learn the potential cause of the mouth sore and receive a treatment plan that may include mouth rinses, ointments, or oral medication. The dentist will also rule out more severe issues, like oral cancer.
Contact Empire Dental Care
The Empire Dental Care team proudly offers comprehensive dental services that meet your needs. Don’t hesitate to call us with questions about canker sores or other dental concerns.
For more information, call 585-671-1650. Schedule a consultation or preventive cleaning and keep your oral health in check!
Sources:
[1] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/canker-sore/symptoms-causes/syc-20370615