Canker sores are annoying shallow and small ulcers that can cause a great deal of pain and discomfort. These appear in the mouth and make talking or eating quite a challenge. This is one of the most common dental concerns that many dentists Houston residents trust and those all over the country have to deal with.
Types of Canker Sores
There are two types of canker sores based on frequency. Simple mouth ulcers occur three to four times per year. They usually last up to one week and occur in individuals who fall in the 10 to 20 year old range. Complex mouth ulcers are not as common. They usually occur in individuals who have previously had this condition.
Symptoms of Canker Sores
If you took a closer look, you would notice that canker sores are white or gray in color. They are round and have a reddish border. You will feel a burning or tingling sensation in the area before they appear. They are usually seen on the soft palate, tongue or the inner portion of the cheeks.
In advanced or chronic cases, you might notice physical fatigue, swollen lymph nodes and also fever.
Causes of Canker Sores
While this is a prevalent dental concern, little is known about the causes of canker sores. Theoretically speaking, trauma due to a sharp tooth surface, acidic food, braces and dentures that do not fit properly are the main causes of simple mouth ulcers. Complex mouth ulcers may be caused by immune system impairment, Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, gastrointestinal problems and nutritional deficiencies (folic acid, vitamin B-12, zinc or iron).
Canker Sore Treatment
This dental problem starts off as painful and inflamed. Sadly, there is no cure for it as well. However, the discomfort does subside in a few days. They usually heal on their own in a week or two.
Please note that there is a risk of infection. This will make the sores larger and more uncomfortable. Dentists Houston residents prefer choose to prescribe antimicrobial mouthrinse, corticosteroid cream or a prescription solution to deal with the irritation and the pain.
Canker Sore Prevention
As mentioned earlier, a lot of factors can lead to canker sore formation. If you are looking for a way to prevent it from occurring, dentists Houston residents trust say that it would be best to steer clear from spicy food, acidic fruits or vegetables and chewing gum.
Brushing and flossing regularly will help prevent this condition from arising as well. It would also be wise to have yourself check regularly if you are genetically predisposed to diseases that weaken the immune system.
While this type of dental condition is common, please be vigilant for unusually large sores and make sure you keep track of its size. If it is spreading, it may be another type of condition. It would also be best to seek the help of dentists Houston residents trust if you notice that it has been around for more than three weeks. If the pain is intolerable or you develop high fever, seek the help of a dentist right away.
Better yet, contact OMSH, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons of Houston to help determine the best course of treatment for long lasting canker mouth sores.
