As a dentist, one of my roles is to help you take care of your mouth. Some of my patients have problems with mouth sores, thus the topic of today’s article.
If you have a mouth sore that lasts more than a week or two; it is important to come in for an oral exam. Mouth sores can be an indicator of disease, and an early assessment aids in preventing more serious problems. If needed, important treatment and pain relief can be offered. In extreme cases, I will refer you to a medical professional who specializes in problems that can cause mouth sores.
There are two types of mouth sores; canker sores and cold sores.
Canker sores are small ulcer-like sores with a white or gray base and a red border. They are found on the inside of the mouth and while they are not contagious, they can be painful. Canker sore generally heal in a week or two. Antimicrobial mouth-rinses, over-the-counter topical anesthetics, and avoiding spicy and acidic foods assists in temporary relief while your sore is healing.
The cause of canker sores is not certain. Possible explanations include: a cut on the inside of the mouth, a reaction to extreme temperatures, acids from food or drink, fatigue, stress, and allergies. Some studies point to bacteria or a virus, or a combination of these factors.
Cold sores, also called fever blisters or Herpes Simplex, are groups of fluid-filled blisters that appear around the lips, sometimes appearing under the nose or around the chin. Cold sores are contagious and painful, but typically heal in about a week. Some over-the-counter anesthetics deliver relief.
Hope on the Horizon
There are revolutionary antiviral drugs on the market that have shown promise in curtailing outbreaks, but there is currently no known cure. The initial infection, known as primary herpes, often occurs before adulthood. Once the virus infects you, it may stay in your body and remain inactive or cause intermittent cold sore outbreaks. Outbreaks may be triggered by a fever, sunburn, skin abrasions, stress, or exposure to extremes in temperature.
Talk To Your Dentist
In some cases, a change in the way you care for your mouth the frequency of mouth sores. If you are in the Royal Oak, area and would like to speak with a dental professional about mouth sores, give us a call at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry to schedule an examination.
Our number is 248-541-8770.
Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:
248-541-8770
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067
