Fix canker sores

Canker sores are easily identified during the visual examination portion of a dental visit, though they may indicate underlying health problems -- especially if they are chronic or particularly severe. These underlying health problems may require additional treatment. Minor canker sores usually resolve on their own in about a week or two, but painful, persistent canker sores may require medical care. Thankfully, there are quite a few different methods of treating canker sores, both to relieve pain and to speed the healing process.

If you are experiencing pain and inflammation that interfere with your ability to eat, drink, talk, and otherwise enjoy life, your doctor may prescribe a pain-reducing mouth rinse that contains either a special steroid or lidocaine. Prescription topical treatments may also be provided; these pastes and creams are applied directly to individual canker sores and are designed to reduce discomfort while also working to heal the canker sore. For less-severe cases, your doctor may recommend an over-the-counter topical treatment with similar effects.

If canker sores do not respond to these topical treatment options, your dentist may prescribe an oral medication to treat the sores and their symptoms. Alternatively, your dentist may prefer to cauterize your canker sores. Cautery is a technique wherein tissue is burned or otherwise destroyed using a special instrument or chemical agent. Some of these cauterizing solutions can dramatically speed healing time, while others are solely intended to reduce and relieve pain. Because canker sores may be associated with certain nutritional deficiencies, your doctor or dentist may also recommend a vitamin or other nutritional supplement if you experience recurring canker sores. If it is determined that your canker sores are caused or exacerbated by an underlying medical condition, your dentist may refer you to a medical specialist to address and treat that condition as well.

If you are unable to see a dentist immediately and are experiencing pain or discomfort due to canker sores, you may be able to find relief with some simple home remedies, which may also help to speed up the healing process. Many people find relief by rinsing their mouths with a simple solution of salt water, or water mixed with a small amount of baking soda. Topically applied milk of magnesia can also sooth the pain of canker sores. Avoiding spicy or acidic foods can reduce irritation and prevent pain from spiking, and topically applied ice may also relieve pain. Because you run the risk of irritating canker sores while brushing your teeth, be sure to brush gently and carefully, and consider using a low-foam toothpaste for sensitive teeth. While you prepare for your dental appointment, it is also helpful to make a list of your symptoms and their duration, the over-the-counter and prescription medications you take, any medical conditions you may have, and any unusual stressors you may be experiencing that could cause canker sores to flare up. Having this information on hand at your dental appointment will help the dentist determine the cause of your canker sore and may contribute to a speedier healing process.

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