Exploring Possible Causes and Solutions
Canker soresare small sores that form in the mouth.
Also known as mouth ulcers oraphthousulcers, canker sores can cause tingling, burning, and pain.
They are not the same ascold sores, which appear on the outside surface of the lips.
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Anyone can develop a canker sore, but they’re most common between the ages of 10 and 20.
They usually go away on their own, but there are ways to prevent and treat canker sores.
One potential cause of recurrent canker sores isvitamin B12 deficiency.
Brush and floss at least twice a day and see a dentist for routine cleanings and checkups.
Stress
Psychological and emotionalstressand anxiety can affect health in many ways, including causing recurring canker sores.
Some other oral health problems associated with HIV/AIDS are chronic dry mouth, gum disease, and fever blisters.
Lupus can also involve oral signs and symptoms.
Among the most common oral problems associated with lupus are canker sores and reduced saliva production (hyposalivation).
Some mouth lesions are a sign of disease activity.
Painful canker sores are often the first symptom.
Though they usually heal within a few days to a week, they frequently recur.
Other symptoms include eye inflammation, skin lesions, and recurring genital ulcers.
IBD is also associated with symptoms outside the gastrointestinal tract.
Although the main symptoms revolve around gastrointestinal problems, celiac disease can affect any part of the body.
How to Treat Canker Sores
Unlike cold sores, canker sores are not contagious.
Most of the time, they go away without treatment within a week or two.
Someremediescan help you feel better while you heal.
Keeping a food diary can help you determine which foods to avoid.
Managing Stress Levels
Of course, you might’t avoid stress entirely.
If you continue to have high stress levels, consider seeking help from a mental health professional.
you’re free to also try mixing equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water.
Repeat three or four times a day.
But you’re able to use other mild mouthwashes.
Swish for about a minute, then spit it out.
Chlorhexidine is a prescription-strength antiseptic mouthwash with antimicrobial effects.
Healthcare providers may prescribe it to treat various oral problems, including canker sores.
In severe cases, your provider might prescribe oral corticosteroids.
Sometimes, acid-reducers can also ease discomfort.
Nutritional Supplements and Multivitamins
Your healthcare provider can help determine if you have any nutritional deficiencies.
If so, changes in diet or taking the appropriate dietary supplements may help reduce recurrence.
In some cases, your provider may want to cauterize a severe mouth sore to help ease pain.
This may involve applying a chemical substance to the sore to destroy the tissue.
Discuss new or recurrent outbreaks of canker sores with the healthcare provider treating your underlying condition.
However, they’re sometimes associated with underlying disease.
But even without treatment, they tend to go away within a week or two.
In the meantime, OTC products such as mouth rinses and gels can provide some relief.
If you have recurrent cankers or other symptoms, see a healthcare provider.
This can be a sign of an underlying illness that should be treated.
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