Fix Canker Sores
What is a canker sore, what causes them and how can you get treat them? A canker sore is a small, shallow, painful ulcer that develop on the soft tissue inside of your mouth, or the gums. They are not contagious, and they do not grow outside of the mouth. They can last several weeks without treatment but during that time they can be quite painful, making it difficult to both eat and speak.
The Cause of Canker Sores
- Aggressive tooth brushing-vigorous brushing can literally cause small tears or inflammation in the soft tissues, opening the door for bacteria.
- Food Allergies and sensitivities-abundant today, these can lead to anaphylactic shock, an itchy throat and canker sores as well.
- Vitamin deficiency- a deficit of B12, zinc, folic acid, calcium, or iron has been linked to canker sores.
- Celiac disease- a autoimmune disorder with numerous health conditions that can also cause canker sores.
- Simple toothpaste and mouthwashes- some products contain a sodium lauryl sulfate, or SLS, that creates foaming. This is a tissue irritant, contributing to canker sores.
- Dental work such as orthodontic braces-minor injuries to the soft tissue with braces or any dental work can create a sore that can be aggravated then by the exposure to bacteria.
- Acidic foods- not necessarily a cause but certainly can make a canker sore worse.
- Emotional stress- stress is a mystery with each of us. Medical explanations sometimes are difficult to quantify. Canker sores can result from an increase in stress and anxiety because of fatigue and a weakened immune system making the soft tissue more susceptible to bacteria attacks.
- Hormonal shifts- during menstruation women often experience these shifts. Hormones can and will change the blood supply to soft tissues, and the reaction to toxins and bacteria. Oral problems then may include canker sores, bleeding gums and swollen glands.
The Treatment for Canker Sores
There are not any tests necessary to diagnose canker sores. Your dentist can identify and confirm with a simple visual exam. Tests may be suggested is they are severe and are an ongoing problem. As mentioned earlier, most canker sores will clear up in a week or two. If they are indeed large and persistent, or quite painful, medical care may be of benefit.
- Mouth Rinses or Washes- Your dentist may prescribe a mouth rinse that contains a steroid that will reduce the pain and inflammation. Topical lidocaine can help as well.
- Topical Products-pastes, creams, gels, and liquids available over the counter or even prescription may also relieve your pain and speed up the healing process. You are looking for these ingredients; hydrogen peroxide, fluocinonide or benzocaine. Ask your dentist for their advice prior to purchasing.
- Oral medications- something like an oral steroid is possible or a coating agent used for gout but in these cases, they come with side effects.
- Nutritional supplements-if it is determined you consume low amounts of important nutrients.
- Cautery- you can burn, sear, or destroy the tissue with an instrument or a chemical substance.
If you are bothered with canker sores schedule an evaluation with your family dentist to evaluate your situation and the possible method of treatment.
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