No matter how healthy your family’s oral hygiene habits are you’re likely to all get canker sores at some point. These temporary but painful mouth issues have a variety of causes. Below are a few to keep in mind so you can clear them.  

A Simple Guide to Canker Sores

What Are Canker Sores?

Canker sores are small cuts in the gums, underneath the tongue or on the upper part of the inside of the lips. These lesions are not contagious but can cause discomfort for a week or two. Some appear red and inflamed while others feature white skin in a circular shape. These sores may bleed as you brush your teeth and require special consideration while tending to daily oral hygiene. Canker sores are sensitive, causing extra pain if you get food in them or place pressure on their surfaces.

What Causes Canker Sores?

These uncomfortable cuts can be caused by eating certain foods, like too much salty or spicy snacks. Sometimes, they occur in areas of the mouth that have recently been traumatized like a part of the lip you accidentally bit. Other times, these sores show up with seemingly no cause—there is no official known reason why they occur.

Can I Prevent Canker Sores?

If you feel like you’ve eaten too many chips and your lips start to burn, stop munching and avoid salt for a few days. If you don’t, canker sores may form at the site of this irritation. Other than paying attention to what you eat, there is no way to prevent getting them. Practicing healthy oral hygiene routines like teeth brushing and flossing may seem like good preventative measures but they likely don’t affect whether your family gets canker sores.

The talented and compassionate team at Kid Smiles in High Point, NC, are available to help with your family’s oral hygiene needs. From providing general annual exams to addressing issues like toothaches and cavities, they’re ready to provide excellent customer service and high-quality dental care. To learn about their offerings call (336) 885-5437. Visit the website for information on their free X-rays with a cleaning and exam, personalized treatments, and comprehensive checkups.