It’s not uncommon for people of all walks of life to deal with canker sores every now and then – and while these small, pesky sores might seem harmless enough, they can be quite uncomfortable. But as common as they are, they can be prevented with the right steps. Continue reading to learn a little more about canker sores and how you can get rid of them so you can go back to enjoying a pain-free smile!
What Are Canker Sores?
Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, are small, round, painful sores that can develop inside the mouth, often white, or yellow with a red border. They are not contagious and are often caused by injury to the mouth, stress, or a reaction to certain foods. People sometimes confuse canker sores with cold sores, which are fever blisters that are contagious and typically appear on the outside of the mouth.
How Can I Alleviate the Pain Caused by Canker Sores?
Fortunately, there are several ways to alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with canker sores and speed up the healing process.
- Topical treatments: Over-the-counter creams and gels can be applied directly to the sore to numb the pain and promote healing. Look for products that contain benzocaine, lidocaine, or menthol.
- Oral pain relief: Pain relievers such as ibuprofen and aspirin can help alleviate the pain associated with canker sores.
- Saline solution: Mixing a teaspoon of salt with a cup of warm water can help cleanse and disinfect the sore, reducing pain and inflammation.
- Avoiding irritants: Certain foods and drinks, such as citrus fruits and acidic beverages, can irritate canker sores and prolong the healing process. It’s best to avoid these foods and drinks until the sore has healed.
- Stress management: Stress can exacerbate canker sores, so it’s important to manage stress through exercise, meditation, or other stress-relieving activities.
In addition to these self-care measures, it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly. If canker sores persist or become severe, it’s best to contact your dentist for further evaluation and treatment. Canker sores can be a painful and uncomfortable condition, but there are several effective ways to alleviate the pain and promote healing!
About Our Practice
Under the leadership of Dr. Tricia Mockler, our team serves the dental needs of patients in Campbell and the surrounding area, offering a wide variety of services. If you have any questions about the blog, or you’d like to get in touch with us to set up an appointment, you can reach out online or call today for additional information. Telephone: (408) 871-0877.