Canker sores. We’ve all had them. They always seem to appear unexpectedly, but while they’re around they can be a pretty big annoyance. Fortunately, most canker sores will go away over the course of a few days with proper treatment. Learn more about canker sores and how to treat them in our blog!
Learn everything you need to know about canker sores in our blog!
Canker Sores
What is a canker sore?
Canker sores are small ulcers that appear in the mouth. You may get them on the inside of your lip, or on the inside of your cheeks.
There are two different kinds of canker sores. Simple canker sores are those that appear 3-4 times a year, usually lasting around 1 week. These are most common in people ages 10-20. Complex canker sores are not as common, but people who have had complex canker sores previously are more likely to get them. They can last longer than simple sores and may require medical attention.
It’s important to note that cold sores and canker sores are not the same thing. Cold sores usually appear on the outside of the mouth, and are caused by a strain of the herpes virus.
Why do they happen?
Simple canker sores are thought to be caused either by stress, or by tissue damage, combined with ingestion of certain foods. For example, if you bite your lip and damage the tissue, and then eat an acidic fruit, the acid can irritate the tissue damage, causing a canker sore.
Complex canker sores are thought to be caused by underlying health conditions. This includes a weakened immune system, poor nutrition, or gastrointestinal tract disease.
Treating Canker Sores
There’s no cure for canker sores, but they should go away on their own in a relatively short period of time. Don’t chew on the canker sore, which will only irritate it. Also, try to avoid foods that can irritate the mouth. This includes spicy foods, and acidic fruits and vegetables.
Should I see a dentist?
In most cases, you won’t need to go to the dentist for treatment of canker sores. However, you should go if sores are bigger than normal, last longer than normal, or start to spread. You should also go to the dentist if they are exceptionally painful, if they cause difficulty eating or drinking, or are accompanied by a high fever.
Call Olney Dental at (301) 250-1057 or contact us online for an appointment. And don’t forget to visit Facebook, Twitter, Google+, Pinterest, and YouTube to connect with us on social media.