Canker Sores: What They Are and How Best To Avoid Them
Canker Sores: What They Are and How Best To Avoid Them
Canker Sores: What They Are and How Best To Avoid Them
Canker Sores: What They Are and How Best To Avoid Them
Canker Sores: What They Are and How Best To Avoid Them
A small ulcer that appears on soft areas within the mouth, called a canker sore causes discomfort and annoyance. Luckily, these small white sores generally shouldn't cause alarm and usually heal fine on their own. While many people experience them now and then, you can help prevent them from showing up in your mouth in a couple of ways.
What Is a Canker Sore?
While those aged 10 to 20 are most likely to suffer from cankers, anyone can get them. The sores appear white or light yellow with irritated red skin around them and should heal within about two weeks in most cases. They might appear in the following areas inside your mouth:
Lips
Gums
Tongue
Cheeks
People often confuse canker sores with cold sores. However, cold sores generally only appear outside the mouth, on and around the lips. They are contagious and can pass an infection to other people.
Thankfully, cankers are not contagious and pose little risk other than mild pain and discomfort for people who develop them. If you experience a canker that seems very large or painful or one that takes more than a week or two to heal, you should consider seeing a healthcare provider for help treating it.
Can You Avoid Developing a Canker Sore?
While it remains unknown why people develop cankers, you can avoid some known triggers to reduce your chances of experiencing them. A few potential causes to avoid include the following:
Brushing your teeth too hard (injuring soft parts of the mouth)
Biting your lips, tongue or cheeks
Not getting enough nutrients or not eating healthy
Feeling frequently stressed
Eating foods you're sensitive to
Reduce the Likelihood of a Canker Sore
While you may still experience the occasional canker sore, habits that help promote good health overall can also help reduce the likelihood of sores developing. If you're concerned about a large or painful canker or just want to schedule a routine checkup for your child's teeth, reach out to us. We offer a variety of services to keep your child's teeth and mouth healthy.
Sources:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/canker-sore/symptoms-causes
https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/canker.html
https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/canker-sores
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000998.htm
