Are canker sores normal?

Many people never get them, but some people get them more often. It leads one to ask are canker sores normal? Let’s face it no one wants to wake up to find discomfort in their mouth. Especially when one practices good oral hygiene and watches their diet. Canker sores can be annoying, and sometimes painful. While we don’t exactly know the cause, we do know how to manage their symptoms and provide treatment.

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Canker Sore Symptoms

Canker sores are usually circular or ovoid in shape with a white center and a red border. They appear this way because the scab tissue in the mouth is in contact with moisture and turns white. Generally they occur on tissues that are freely movable in the mouth such as the cheeks, inner lips, or under the tongue. They do not occur outside mouth on the edge of the lips, or the non-movable tissue adjacent to teeth.

Cankers sores can cause mild to moderate discomfort. Most of the discomfort occurs when something comes in contact with the sore, such as food or the tongue. Certain foods that are acidic, or contain higher salt contents can also cause more discomfort. It is best to avoid salty and acidic foods while the sore heals.

How do you make canker sores feel better?

There are a variety of ways for patients to get relief from a canker sore. A canker sore can make eating painful, and depending upon the size of the sore and the location may take time to heal. Typically a canker sore will heal on its own within two weeks. Patients can take over the counter pain medications to provide temporary relief; and, a dentist can also prescribe medications that help sores heal faster. Out patient treatment is also available at many dental offices; dentists can apply chemicals to canker sores to eliminate pain or discomfort while the lesions heal. Lasers can also be used to quickly and comfortably to eliminate pain.

Related: New Technology, Laser Dentistry

At our office we offer a wide variety of treatment options. We are happy to provide immediate relief for canker sores using chemical, or laser treatment. Patients who experience them more often may benefit from a prescription medication.