Mouth ulcers, also called canker sores, are small, painful lesions in the mouth that can turn everyday activities like eating and talking into a real challenge. Although they are generally benign, they can have a significant impact on your daily comfort.
Whether you’re faced with the occasional canker or suffer from frequent flare-ups, be reassured that there are ways to soothe your aches and pains.
In this article, Montreal dentists present several effective and accessible methods of treating canker sores of all types.
What is a mouth ulcer?
Mouth ulcers are small, painful lesions that appear inside the mouth. They are usually round or oval, with a yellow or white center and a bright red outline.
Mouth ulcers can vary in size, from a few millimeters to over a centimeter wide. They can form on the tongue, the insides of the cheeks, on the gums, under the tongue or even on the roof of the mouth.
There are three main types of mouth ulcers:
- Minor mouth ulcers: These are the most common, and usually heal in one to two weeks without leaving any scars.
- Major aphthae: These ulcers are larger and deeper, and can take several weeks to heal. They sometimes leave scars.
- Herpetiform aphthous ulcers: These form from clusters of multiple small ulcers, and are often mistaken as a symptom of oral herpes.
Mouth ulcers: causes
The exact causes of mouth ulcers remains uncertain, but several factors can contribute to an outbreak. These include:
- Trauma to the mouth, such as accidentally biting the cheek, or irritation caused by braces.
- Stress and fatigue, which can weaken the immune system and make a person vulnerable to developing mouth ulcers.
- Dietary deficiencies, particularly an insufficient intake of vitamin B12, iron or folic acid.
- Allergic reactions to certain foods or additives.
- Hormonal changes, particularly in women, linked to the menstrual cycle.
- Certain medications, especially those affecting the immune system.
How to get rid of mouth ulcers
Mouth ulcers can often be treated effectively with simple, natural remedies. However, if you can’t find relief with a home treatment, a doctor or dentist can offer other solutions.
Home treatment for mouth ulcers
- Salt water rinse: Dissolve a teaspoon of salt in a glass of lukewarm water and rinse your mouth with this solution several times a day. The salt will help to cleanse the affected area and reduce inflammation.
- Baking soda: Apply a paste of baking soda (a mixture of sodium bicarbonate and water) directly to the canker sore. This can help neutralize acidity and relieve pain.
- Honey: The antibacterial and soothing properties of honey can promote healing. Simply apply a small amount to the ulcer several times a day.
- Tea bags: You can apply a moist tea bag directly to a canker sore, and the tannins in the tea will help reduce pain and inflammation. Black tea is most effective.
- Aloe vera: Applying aloe vera gel to a mouth ulcer can help soothe irritation and speed healing.
Treatments available from your pharmacy
- Anaesthetic gels or creams: Products containing lidocaine or benzocaine can be applied directly to a mouth ulcer for temporary pain relief.
- Medicated mouthwashes: Some mouthwashes containing steroids or other anti-inflammatory agents can reduce inflammation and pain.
- Protective pastes: These products form a protective barrier over the mouth ulcer, helping to shield it from irritation and promote healing.
- Nutritional supplements: If canker sores are related to dietary deficiencies, your doctor or dentist may recommend taking vitamin B12, iron or folic acid supplements.
When to consult a doctor or dentist
- Recurrent or multiple mouth ulcers: If you suffer from mouth ulcers on a regular basis, or currently have several cankers at a time, we recommend consulting a professional.
- Large or very painful mouth ulcers: Particularly large or painful mouth ulcers may require targeted medical treatment.
- Mouth ulcers that don’t heal: If a mouth ulcer doesn’t heal within two weeks, consult an expert to rule out other medical conditions.
- Additional symptoms: If you suffer from fever, difficulty swallowing or any other unusual symptoms along with a mouth ulcer, you should visit a doctor or dentist immediately.
Do you suffer from recurring mouth ulcers? Make an appointment with our dentists!
Although mouth ulcers can be embarrassing and painful, there are many effective methods for treating them and preventing them from reappearing. If you suffer from persistent, painful or recurring canker sores, you owe it to yourself to seek help as soon as possible.
At our Montreal dental clinic, we’re dedicated to providing superior dental care so you can enjoy a healthy, radiant smile. Our experienced team is ready to provide you with personalized advice and treatment tailored to your specific needs. Whether you need a dental check-up, a treatment or advice on managing canker sores, we’re here to support you on your journey to optimal oral health.
Don’t wait for small problems to become big concerns. Schedule an appointment today at our Montreal dental center and take the first step toward a healthier, happier smile. Your oral well-being is our priority!