Canker Sores and Mouth Ulcers

Canker sores

Canker sores are small, painful ulcers inside the mouth that form on the tongue, lips, inner cheeks, or on the roof of the mouth. They typically have a red border and a yellow or white centre and can be painful. If you experience them, you may want to seek medical attention. There’s no proven cause or cure for canker sores. However, you should follow proper oral hygiene to prevent them from spreading or becoming a serious health problem.

Topical medications, such as ointments or lip balms, can be applied to the sores. These medications often contain a steroid or an analgesic. Some people also apply Aphthasol, an “oral paste” that can help reduce pain and speed up healing. Another treatment option is oral medications, including the gout drug colchicine or the ulcer drug sucralfate.

While canker sores are pretty standard, you must see a doctor if you have recurring cases or more than one a year. Your doctor can perform a physical exam and medical history to diagnose the condition. They can also conduct a blood test to determine the cause of your canker sores.

Cancerous mouth ulcers

Cancerous mouth ulcers typically develop under the tongue but may also develop in other mouth areas. Anyone with these symptoms should seek medical attention immediately. If the ulcer has not healed within three weeks, it may indicate cancer. Treatment for cancerous mouth ulcers is different from other types of ulcers. In some cases, radiation therapy or chemotherapy is required to eliminate cancer. Otherwise, prevention is essential. Maintaining good oral hygiene and avoiding predisposing habits can help to prevent the development of ulcers. It is also essential to see a dentist regularly. Children are also susceptible to developing mouth ulcers. They typically develop them during early childhood, especially during their first year. This is because their mouths are soft, and children often put things in them that can cause them to develop ulcers.

While mouth ulcers are typically benign, you should see a dentist if you notice more than three in a short period. You should seek medical attention if the ulcer persists for more than two weeks or if it becomes large and painful. In some rare cases, cancerous mouth ulcers may result from another disease. If the ulcers are large, you may need surgery to remove them.

Treatment

The primary aim of treating a mouth ulcer is to eliminate the pain and discomfort caused by the condition. Often, the condition heals itself after a few days, but if the ulcer persists for more than three weeks, you should visit a healthcare provider. In the meantime, proper oral hygiene and a regular dental visit can help you avoid a mouth ulcer.

A mouth ulcer is an erosion of the mucous membrane inside the mouth. It can be caused by several factors, including certain medications and viruses. Additionally, it can be a symptom of a severe condition, such as mouth cancer. Therefore, treatment of a mouth ulcer depends on the type and cause of the ulcer.

Treatment of a mouth ulcer may involve avoiding spicy foods and using antiseptic mouthwash to treat the problem. A dentist may also prescribe medication to treat the underlying medical condition that caused the ulcer. A balanced diet and proper oral hygiene are also recommended.