As a dentist, one of my roles is to help you take care of your mouth. Some of my patients have issues with mouth sores, thus the topic of today’s message.
If you have a mouth sore that lasts more than a week or two; it is vital to come in for an exam. Mouth sores can be an indicator of disease, and an early assessment helps with preventing more serious issues. If needed, vital treatment and pain relief can be offered. In extreme cases, I will refer you to a medical professional who specializes in ailments that can cause mouth sores.
There are two types of mouth sores; canker sores and cold sores.
Canker sores are small ulcer-like sores with a white or gray base and a red border. They are found on the inside of the mouth and while they are not contagious, they can be painful. Canker sores typically heal in a week or two. Antimicrobial mouth rinses, over-the-counter topical anesthetics, and avoiding spicy and acidic foods assist with temporary relief while your sore is healing.
The cause of canker sores is not certain. Possible explanations include a cut on the inside of the mouth, a reaction to extreme temperatures, acids from food or drink, fatigue, stress, and allergies. Some studies point to bacteria, a virus, or a combination of these factors.
Cold sores, also called fever blisters or Herpes Simplex, are groups of fluid-filled blisters that appear around the lips, sometimes appearing under the nose or around the chin. Cold sores are contagious and painful, but usually, heal in about a week. Some over-the-counter anesthetics deliver relief.
Hope on the Horizon
There are innovative antiviral drugs on the market that have shown promise in reducing outbreaks, but there is currently no known cure. The initial infection, known as primary herpes, often occurs before adulthood. Once the virus infects you, it may stay in your body and remain inactive or cause recurrent cold sore outbreaks. Outbreaks may be triggered by a fever, sunburn, skin abrasions, stress, or exposure to extremes in temperature.
Talk To Your Dentist
In some cases, a change in the way you care for your mouth the frequency of mouth sores. If you are in the Yuma, area and would like to talk to a dental professional about mouth sores, give us a call at The Yuma Dentist to schedule an examination.
Our number is 928-783-0804.
Contact The Yuma Dentist (Tap to open in Google Maps):
The Yuma Dentist – Pacific Avenue
1630 S Pacific Ave Ste 104
Yuma, AZ 85365
928-783-0804The Yuma Dentist – Fortuna Foothills
11231 E Commercial Center Loop Ste 105
Yuma, AZ 85367
928-783-8300
