Canker sores can be more than just a minor irritation; they can make eating, drinking, and even talking painful. These small, often uncomfortable sores can affect your daily oral hygiene routine, but it’s important to continue brushing and flossing to promote healing. At Lockney Dental, we’ve put together this guide to help you understand canker sores and how to manage them.
What Do Canker Sores Look Like?
Canker sores are typically small, round, reddish sores that can appear on the soft tissues inside your mouth, including your tongue, the inside of your cheeks, or at the base of your gums. Occasionally, they may have a yellow or white center. These sores can range in size but are usually no larger than a small coin.
What Causes Canker Sores?
Canker sores can be triggered by various factors. One of the most common causes is an injury to the inside of your mouth, such as accidentally biting your cheek or lip, or sustaining a blow during sports. Even brushing your teeth too vigorously can create abrasions that lead to canker sores. For some people, sensitivity to certain ingredients in toothpaste, such as sodium lauryl sulfate, can also trigger outbreaks.
Certain foods, including chocolate, nuts, spicy foods, and acidic items like tomatoes, may cause or worsen canker sores. Additionally, a deficiency in vitamins like B-12 or zinc has been linked to the development of these sores. Stress and hormonal changes can also contribute to their appearance.
What Can You Do About Canker Sores?
The best way to manage canker sores is to maintain good oral hygiene. Brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing daily can help prevent the buildup of plaque and bacteria, which can further irritate the sores. When brushing around a canker sore, be gentle to avoid aggravating it.
Although it may be tempting to avoid brushing the sore area, doing so can lead to a buildup of bacteria, which can prolong healing. You can also try using a mouthwash designed for mouth sores to help soothe the area.
If your canker sores persist for more than a week or if you experience frequent outbreaks, it’s a good idea to consult with a dentist in Concord. Our team at Lockney Dental can assess your oral health and offer personalized advice to help manage and prevent future sores.
For more information about oral health or to schedule an appointment, contact Lockney Dental today. We look forward to helping you maintain a healthy, pain-free mouth!