Dental health doesn’t only involve the teeth and gums. Sores and irritations may develop inside and around the mouth.
Mouth sores are common ailments that affect most people at some point in their lives. These sores usually appear on any soft tissues in the mouth including the lips, gums, tongue, and the floor and roof of the mouth.
Causes
These sores come in different shapes and sizes and might be caused by one of the following:
*Irritation from a loose orthodontic wire, sharp edge from a filling or a broken tooth or, a denture that doesn’t perfectly fit
*Burns from hot food and beverage
*Brushing your teeth too hard with a very firm toothbrush
*Chewing tobacco
*Biting your tongue, cheek or lip
*Infections from various bacteria, fungus or viruses
*The symptom of a disease or disorder
*Over-the-counter or prescription medications
*Weakened immune system
Learn more about periodontal care in Pickering.
Symptoms
Mouth sores commonly cause redness and pain, most especially when drinking and eating. They come in various sizes and severity, and they may be located on the different parts of your mouth. These sores may also develop blisters, making it difficult for a person to eat, talk, or smile.
If a sore does not go away after a couple of weeks, or once they start getting worse, it’s time to consult a doctor for further examinations. The doctor will check your mouth, tongue and lips and may perform other necessary tests.
Treatment
Minor mouth sores often heal naturally within 10 to 14 days. To help ease the pain, you may try the following:
*Gargle with salt water.
*avoid hot, spicy, salty, citrusy, and sweet foods.
*Avoid tobacco and alcoholic drinks.
*Avoid squeezing or picking at the blisters and sores.
*Eat ice chips, sherbet, or other cold foods.
*Take over-the-counter anti-pain medications.
For more severe cases, however, the doctor might prescribe a pain medication, steroid gel, or an anti-inflammatory drug. If results show that the sores are caused by a virus, bacteria or fungus, then the proper medication will be prescribed to treat the infection.
Prevention
There is no absolute way on how mouth sores can be prevented. However, these practices might be helpful in reducing the risk for having these painful sores:
*Be careful with very hot foods and drinks.
*Chew with caution.
* Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and practice good and regular dental hygiene.
*Eat a balanced diet.
*Drink plenty of water.
*Do not smoke or use tobacco.
*Avoid or limit alcohol consumption.
*Take vitamin supplements, especially B vitamins.
*Let your dentist know if any dental wire of teeth may be irritating your mouth.
*Avoid excessive stress.
Helpful Resources
For more information, visit the Government of Canada Oral Health Guide.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
Contact Pickering Square Dental to book your appointment with Dr. Marvin Lean. Call us at (905) 420-1777 or visit us at 1450 Kingston Rd, Unit #4, Pickering, ON.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I visit the dentist?
The Canadian Dental Association recommends visiting your dentist at least twice a year for regular check-ups and cleanings. Some patients may need more frequent visits depending on their oral health needs. Call Pickering Square Dental at (905) 420-1777 to schedule your next appointment.
Do you accept the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)?
Yes, Pickering Square Dental participates in the Canadian Dental Care Plan. Our team can help you understand your coverage and ensure you receive the dental care you need. Contact us for more details about CDCP eligibility and benefits.
What services does Pickering Square Dental offer?
We offer a full range of dental services including family dentistry, emergency dental care, sedation dentistry, dental implants, laser dentistry, teeth whitening, root canal therapy, dental extractions, periodontal care, and cosmetic dentistry. Dr. Lean and our team serve patients in Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, and Scarborough.
