Do you have some white-yellowish ulcers in your mouth?
Is the small white bubble starting to get red?
Do you often experience white ulcers?
Read this article further to prevent and cure canker sores.
What are Canker Sores?
Canker sores (aphthous ulcers) are a common oral problem. It is white-yellow and can become a little red over time.
It usually causes slight discomfort during chewing and talking. Canker sores usually form on the lips, cheeks, or gums, and you can experience a minor tingling or burning sensation.
If you are experiencing canker sores, it is better to consult the best dentist near you as soon as possible.
Different Types of Canker Sores
There are various types of canker sores- major, minor, simple, complex, and herpetiform canker sores. Simple and Minor canker sores are the most common and can occur at any age.
Some people might even experience canker sores twice or thrice within a year. They generally are 0.5-1mm in diameter and can last up to two weeks.
- Major Canker Sores
They are less common and deeper than minor canker sores. The major canker sores can be very painful and are uneven around the edges.
They can last for more than 2 weeks and can worsen if you do not receive the best treatment for canker sores.
- Minor Canker Sores
The minor canker sores are small in size and slightly painful. They are generally white and last for about 2 weeks.
These canker sores are round/oval and are common in the 10-20 age group.
Moreover, if you have experienced minor canker sores previously, then there is a high chance that you can get them again.
- Herpetiform Canker Sores
Herpetiform canker sores are the least common and unusually large. Its size can grow to more than 5mm and can be very painful.
The person usually experiences a burning or tingling sensation before the formation of canker sores. They are irregular around the edges and occur in clusters of 100.
The best part is that they heal within a week without any scarring.
How to Treat Canker Sores?
Simple and minor canker sores can be treated with home remedies.
However, it is best to call your dentist if the canker sores are severe and last for more than 14 weeks.
Home Remedies for Canker Sores
- Maintain your oral hygiene and floss twice a day.
- Rinse your mouth with a mix of warm water and baking soda.
- Apply ice on the affected area
- Gargle with warm water and salt to soften the affected area.
Clinical Treatments for Canker Sores
- Antiseptic mouthwashes with chlorhexidine reduce bacterial infection.
- Use of products containing benzocaine, hydrogen peroxide, or fluocinonide.
- Use of dexamethasone (generally in mouthwashes) to reduce inflammation.
For extreme cases, the clinical treatments for canker sores also include consuming antibiotics with doxycycline.
Preventions for Canker Sores
Diet and oral hygiene have a deeper connection than you know. Eating high amounts of artificial sugar and extremely spicy foods can cause harm to your oral health.
Thus, avoid eating spicy foods when experiencing canker sores. Besides this, some other preventions are:
- Using soft-bristled brush
- Avoid chewing gums since they can enhance irritation.
- Avoid oral products with sodium lauryl sulphate.
Summing Up
Keep a regular check on your oral hygiene. Early observation of canker sores can prevent them from turning into severe oral issues.
Consult the best dentist regularly if you have any visible signs of canker sores like redness, irritation, burning sensation, or difficulty in chewing. If you are a Ludhiana resident, Sharma dental clinic is the best in town. Some oral health issues can be a real pain and require careful research and years of experience, and we understand that.
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