Canker sores are an irritating sore usually in the form of a white or gray sore with a red border. In order for you to get back to eating and drinking, Olympia Dental Group wants to inform you better about this annoying, small ulcer as well as ways to prevent and treat them.
The two main types of canker sores are simple and complex. Simple canker sores appear three or four times a year and last about a week, occurring between 10 and 20 years old. Complex canker sores occur more in people who previously had them. These are much less common.
Though there are some possibilities to why they occur, the root of most canker sores is unknown. A dental appliance or sharp tooth surface, including braces or dentures, might trigger sores as well as stress or injury to the tissue. They may make a canker sore worse. Citrus or acidic fruits and vegetables, bacteria, viruses, or some immune system problems are thought to be a factor for complex canker sores.
Chewing gum is another irritant along with acidic or spicy foods, so these are all useful to avoid. Floss daily and brush after meals to help free your mouth of foods that can activate a sore. Over-the-counter anesthetics and antimicrobial mouthwashes may provide momentary relief. The best option to stop sores from growing can be discussed with your dentist.
If you suffer unusually large sores, sores lasting more than three weeks, spreading sores, difficulty swallowing, a high fever, or further pain, give Olympia Dental Group a call at 360-943-4777 here in Lacey, Washington. We will attend to your dental needs and ease your discomfort.
