Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, are small, painful lesions that develop inside the mouth. While they are not contagious or harmful, they can cause discomfort and affect a person’s ability to eat, speak, and perform daily activities. Lets look at what canker sores are and discover their causes, symptoms and treatments.
Causes of Canker Sores:
The exact cause of canker sores is not fully understood, but several factors may contribute to their development, including:
Trauma: Minor injuries to the mouth, such as biting the inside of the cheek or brushing too vigorously, can trigger the formation of canker sores. You should refer to a Best Dentist in Karachi to get treated in such cases.
Stress: Emotional stress or anxiety may weaken the immune system and increase the likelihood of developing canker sores.
Food Sensitivities: Certain foods, such as citrus fruits, spicy foods, and acidic foods, may irritate the lining of the mouth and trigger your canker sores.
Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations, such as those associated with menstruation or pregnancy may cause canker sores as well.
Underlying Health Conditions: Conditions such as autoimmune disorders, gastrointestinal diseases, and nutritional deficiencies may be linked to an increased risk of canker sores.
Symptoms of Canker Sores:
Canker sores typically present as small, round or oval-shaped lesions with a white or yellowish center and a red border. Common symptoms of canker sores include:
Pain or Discomfort: Canker sores can cause a burning or tingling sensation in the affected area, which may worsen when eating, drinking, or speaking.
Difficulty Eating or Drinking: Severe canker sores may make it painful to chew or swallow food, leading to reduced appetite or difficulty maintaining proper nutrition.
Swelling and Inflammation: The surrounding tissue may become swollen and inflamed, making it sensitive to touch or pressure.
Recurrent Episodes: Some people can have reappearing canker sores, with new sores appearing every few weeks or months.
Treatment Options for Canker Sores:
While canker sores typically resolve on their own within one to two weeks, several treatment options can help alleviate symptoms and promote healing, including:
Topical Medications: Over-the-counter topical treatments, such as numbing gels or mouthwashes containing ingredients like benzocaine or hydrogen peroxide, can provide temporary pain relief and promote healing.
Oral Rinses: Mouthwashes containing antiseptic or anti-inflammatory ingredients, such as chlorhexidine or dexamethasone, may help reduce inflammation and prevent infection.
Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help alleviate discomfort associated with canker sores.
Avoiding Irritants: Avoiding spicy, acidic, or rough-textured foods that may exacerbate canker sore symptoms can help promote healing and prevent further irritation.
Stress Management: Practicing stress-reduction techniques, such as mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga, may help prevent stress-related canker sore outbreaks.
In some cases, severe or persistent canker sores may require medical attention from a healthcare professional. Your dentist or doctor may prescribe prescription-strength medications, such as corticosteroids or oral antibiotics, to help manage symptoms and prevent complications.
Conclusion
Lastly, canker sores can be uncomfortable and inconvenient, they are usually harmless and resolve on their own with time. However, if you experience recurrent or severe canker sores, or if your symptoms do not improve with home remedies, you can consult a Best Dentist in Lahore for further evaluation and treatment.