5 Things You Need to Know About Mouth Ulcers

1. What Causes Mouth Ulcers?

Mouth ulcers, also known as mouth sores and canker sores, are any open sores of the mouth affecting the soft tissue. They are the result of various oral or autoimmune afflictions including thrush, herpes virus, gingivitis and oral cancer and can occur anywhere inside the mouth. Mouth ulcers can also be a byproduct of certain oral medications, such as antiseptic, or of acidic food stuffs, such as citrus juice. Occasionally, a mouth ulcer is the result of an injury, such as biting the soft flesh of the inside of your cheek or a burn from food that is too hot.

2. What a Pain

The most notable symptoms are open sores, pain and swelling. You may also experience discomfort when brushing your teeth or eating and drinking certain food stuffs. Either your doctor or dentist will note the symptoms and then perform a physical examination. Depending on the appearance of the mouth ulcer, your doctor or dentist may then decide to perform a blood test. He may also take a biopsy of the mouth ulcer by removing a small piece of it for examination.

3. Manage the Symptoms

Almost 80% of all mouth ulcers go away by themselves and require no medical intervention. There are a few things you can do to manage the discomfort, while waiting for these types of minor sores to heal. Avoid spicy or acidic foods, keep your mouth clean by rinsing periodically with warm salt water and apply an antiseptic numbing gel to the sore. If an illness or auto-immune condition is responsible for your mouth ulcer, you will need pharmaceutical treatment. Your doctor will prescribe either an anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal or an anti-viral drug depending on the condition.

4. Can Lead to Infection

If your mouth ulcer does not clear in 10 to 14 days, see your doctor. Mouth sores left untreated can sometimes lead to other complications, including bacterial infections. If the bacterial infection from your mouth sore spreads to other areas of your mouth, it could cause gum inflammation or tooth abscess. Bacterial infections require a round of antibiotic treatment.

5. Oral TLC

You can prevent canker sores by taking good care of your mouth. Brush and floss your teeth regularly to prevent gingivitis, which is the inflammation of the soft tissue surrounding your teeth. Likewise, visit your dentist at least twice a year for professional cleanings. Take care of your body from the inside by eating a healthy diet full of fruits and vegetables. Because there is a higher incidence of herpes-related cold sores in people who are physically and emotionally stressed out, find productive ways to reduce your anxiety.