A canker sore is a small ulcer inside the mouth or on the base of the gums. Though they tend to be tiny and shallow, these sores can make simple activities, including eating, drinking, and talking, painful and awkward. Below, learn more about canker sores to determine if it's time to see a dentist.

Types

The most common canker sore is a minor canker sore, which is smaller than one centimeter and heals on its own within a week. A major canker sore is larger than one centimeter and typically leaves behind a scar after it has healed. The rarest type is a herpetiform canker sore, which looks like a mass of tiny sores.

Causes

The exact cause of canker sores is unknown, but several factors tend to contribute to their development. These include stress, acidic foods, allergic reactions, and mouth-tissue damage from a sharp tooth, biting inside one's mouth, or an injury from a dental tool. Major canker sores are often the result of a vitamin or nutritional deficiency or an underlying health issue, such as celiac disease, Crohn's disease, HIV or AIDS, or lupus.

Prevention

To prevent canker sores, brush and floss your teeth at least twice a day, and rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash. Also, minimize your consumption of highly acidic foods, such as tomatoes, oranges, and vinegar, and avoid chewing gum to decrease the risk of biting your mouth. Finally, manage your stress levels by scheduling regular breaks in your workday, eating healthily, and getting plenty of fresh air and exercise.

If you have an active canker sore, you can find over-the-counter medicated gels and creams that'll help with recovery.

Treatment

If a canker sore is causing significant discomfort, a dentist can prescribe a special mouthwash with steroidal or painkilling properties, or a drug or steroid to treat the sore. If a nutritional deficiency causes your sores, you may need dietary changes or supplements. Finally, a dentist can cauterize a particularly painful sore to provide instant relief.

If you have a canker sore that’s interfering with your life and comfort, schedule an appointment with James Julien DDS. This professional has been serving the Kenai, AK, area for more than 20 years. He offers a wide range dental care services, including exams, crowns, teeth whitening, and braces. Call (907) 283-4857 to arrange a consultation, or visit his website to learn more about his offerings.