Treating canker sores is an important aspect of dental care, with at least 20% of the population getting them at some point. Brought on by stress, certain foods, or seemingly at random, canker sores can last from a few days to several weeks. If you or your child is prone to getting canker sores, Pediatric Dental Group in Honolulu has put together this guide on how to avoid and get rid of them:

• Recognize & Avoid Triggers: Canker sore causes can be physical and psychosomatic. Some common canker sore triggers include orthodontic devices that rub on the cheeks, citrus fruits, coffee, chips, toothpaste containing sodium lauryl sulfate (a foaming agent), emotional stress, and vitamin deficiencies (e.g. iron, vitamin B-12, zinc, and folic acid). Certain medical conditions, such as celiac disease or an autoimmune disorder, can also predispose a person to developing canker sores, in which case keeping the condition stable will lessen outbreaks.

• Home Treatment: Canker sores usually give you a “heads up” a couple days before they fully erupt, in the form of a sharp tingle or burning sensation in the cheeks, gums, or tongue. Most are fairly small, and can heal without professional dental care. You can ensure faster healing if you eat carefully, brush gently using toothpaste without sodium lauryl sulfate, and regularly rinse with saltwater, or an antiseptic solution containing hydrogen peroxide or baking soda.

• Professional Dental Care: If a canker sore is deeply embedded, larger than 10 millimeters in diameter, and doesn't have obvious borders, you should seek professional dental care, as large ulcers often scar deeply, and can take several weeks to heal. A dentist can provide medications to keep inflammation down, speed healing, and reduce pain. They can also recommend solutions in case a dental appliance is causing canker sores, such as protective barriers or waxes.

Proper dental care, dental hygiene, and a healthy immune system are key to preventing canker sores. To schedule an appointment at Pediatric Dental Group, call (808) 593-8828. You can also reach your neighborhood dentistry online.