How to Prevent and Treat Canker Sores
If you've ever had a canker sore, you know how surprisingly painful these small mouth ulcers can be. They tend to pop up at the most inconvenient times, like right before a big presentation or during a vacation. Understanding what canker sores are and knowing a few simple treatment options can help you manage them effectively if/when you find yourself with them.
What Are Canker Sores?
Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, are small, shallow lesions that develop in your mouth (usually in the soft tissue areas around the bottom of your gums or inside of your cheeks). Unlike cold sores, canker sores don't appear on the surface of your lips, and they aren't contagious. They can be round or oval with a white or yellow center and a red border.
The exact cause of canker sores is still a bit of a mystery, but several factors may trigger their development, including minor mouth injury from dental work, aggressive brushing, or sports mishaps. Other potential triggers include stress, hormonal shifts, food sensitivities (especially acidic or spicy foods), vitamin deficiencies (particularly B12, zinc, folate, and iron), and certain medical conditions.
Symptoms of Canker Sores
The main symptom is a painful sore in the mouth that may make eating, drinking, and talking uncomfortable. You might also experience a tingling or burning sensation before the sore appears. Most canker sores go away on their own within one to two weeks.
How to Treat Canker Sores
While canker sores typically heal without treatment, there are ways to ease the discomfort and possibly speed up the healing process:
1. Keep it clean: Rinse your mouth with a mild saltwater solution or baking soda rinse (dissolve 1 teaspoon of baking soda in 1/2 cup warm water). This can help reduce irritation and soothe your mouth.
2. Take over-the-counter remedies: Products containing active ingredients like benzocaine can numb the area and provide temporary relief. There are also oral patches that cover the sore and protect it from irritating foods and drinks.
3. Avoid irritating foods: Stay away from spicy, acidic, or rough foods that can further irritate the sore. Instead, opt for soft, bland foods until the sore heals.
4. Practice good oral hygiene: Continue to brush and floss regularly but be gentle around the sore. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush can help prevent irritation.
5. Protect your mouth: If you notice that dental appliances like braces or dentures are triggering your canker sores, talk to your dentist about orthodontic waxes or other adjustments.
If you frequently get canker sores or if they are particularly severe, it doesn’t hurt to contact your dentist. We can check for underlying issues and recommend more treatment options as well as preventive strategies you haven’t tried yet. Dealing with canker sores is undoubtedly frustrating, but with a bit of care, you can manage them effectively and minimize their disruption to your daily life.
