Canker sores are painful and can make eating, drinking, and even talking uncomfortable. Although they can be troublesome, it’s important to continue your daily oral hygiene routine, as maintaining a clean mouth is key to promoting healing. At Evolve Dentistry, we’ve put together this helpful guide to give you everything you need to know about canker sores.
What Do Canker Sores Look Like?
Canker sores are typically small, round, and reddish in color. They can appear on the soft tissues of your mouth, including your:
- Tongue
- Cheeks
- The base of your gums
- Inside of your lips
In some cases, canker sores have a yellow or white center with a red border. Though they are usually minor, they can cause significant discomfort when eating or speaking.
What Causes Canker Sores?
While the exact cause of canker sores isn’t always clear, several factors can contribute to their development. Common causes include:
- Injury or Trauma: Accidentally biting your lip or cheek, or injuries from sports, can cause sores to form.
- Toothpaste Sensitivity: Some individuals are sensitive to toothpaste containing sodium lauryl sulfate, which may trigger canker sores.
- Certain Foods: Spicy foods, chocolate, nuts, and acidic foods like citrus can irritate the mouth and lead to sores.
- Nutritional Deficiencies: A lack of essential vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin B-12 and zinc, may contribute to the development of canker sores.
What Can I Do About Canker Sores?
The best way to prevent and manage canker sores is to maintain good oral hygiene, even when a sore is present. Here’s what you can do:
- Brush Gently: While brushing twice a day is essential, be gentle around the canker sore. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid further irritation.
- Floss Regularly: Keep your mouth clean by flossing daily to remove bacteria and food particles that could worsen the sore.
- Use a Mouthwash: Some mouthwashes are specifically formulated to help soothe mouth sores. This can reduce pain and aid in the healing process.
- Avoid Irritating Foods: Spicy, acidic, or crunchy foods can aggravate the sore, so try to avoid them until your mouth heals.
Most canker sores will heal within one to two weeks. However, if your canker sore doesn’t heal within that time frame or if you experience frequent outbreaks, it’s time to visit our dentist in Westmont for an evaluation.
When to See a Dentist
If you find that you’re regularly getting canker sores, or if they persist longer than expected, scheduling a visit to Evolve Dentistry can help. We can assess your oral health and provide guidance to reduce the occurrence of canker sores. Our team will also offer expert advice on treatments that can help relieve your discomfort.
For more information about maintaining oral health or to schedule your next visit, contact us at Evolve Dentistry today. We’re here to help you achieve a healthy, pain-free smile!
