You might focus on maintaining good oral health by brushing and flossing your teeth, but other problems may occur. If you or your child experience mouth sores, it’s helpful to know how to identify canker sores and treat them. Here’s what dentists think you should know about this common condition.

What You Should Know About Canker Sores

Symptoms

Canker sores are non-contagious lesions that can occur at the base of your gums, inner lip, or on the inner cheeks of your mouth. They appear as tiny, yellowish, or white wounds encircled by redness. These small, round, and shallow sores can be painful and make it uncomfortable to talk or eat. Medical professionals call these wounds aphthous ulcers, which can be simple and minor or large and complex.

Causes

Anyone can develop canker sores, with the minor variety usually appearing in children and young adults. Doctors don’t know all the specific reasons why canker sores occur. Foods containing citric acids, such as oranges, lemons, and tomatoes, can start or irritate a sore. Minor oral injuries, such as a jagged tooth or irritation from braces, might cause the lesions. Complex sores often appear in people with immune system disorders or deficiencies in levels of iron, zinc, vitamin B12, and folic acid. 

Treatment

Small, simple canker sores usually clear up within a week or two without treatment. Applying nonprescription liquids, pastes, gels, or creams help reduce pain. However, if you have large, painful, or complex and persistent sores, it’s wise to seek care from a dentist or doctor. Prescription treatments include mouth rinses that contain lidocaine for pain control or dexamethasone, a steroid that minimizes pain and inflammation.

If you have questions about canker sores and oral health, consult a dentist at BridgeView Dental Group in Kodiak, AK. They care about their patients’ long-term dental health and provide a variety of services, including routine cleanings, fillings, teeth extractions, and orthodontics. Patients are treated in a welcoming and comfortable environment. To learn more about their services, call (907) 486-3257 or visit their website.