What Are Mouth Ulcers?

What Does Bone Graft Have To Do With Dental Implants TreatmentAt some point, we all experience a mouth ulcer. It is more common than you may think. Mouth ulcers can be caused from canker sores, herpes or cold sores, yeast or fungal infections, the use of tobacco, varying medications, injuries, and some systemic illnesses. You will recognize an ulcer by its appearance and feel. Pimple like bumps, red, irritated, painful, ulcers can be quite annoying.

Most ulcers, other than yeast and fungal infections, will clear up on their own within a week. If the ulcer does not seem to be clearing up, there are some things you can do.

What Can I Do To Rid Myself Of A Mouth Ulcer?

If your mouth ulcer is still painful after a week, try one of the following options.

  • Be aware of the foods and drinks you are consuming. Sores are often agitated with foods and drinks that are highly acidic. This may include oranges, peppers, and even coffee and tea.
  • There are certain canker sores that develop from the use of tobacco. To reduce these sores, and if quitting smoking is not an option, the patient must lessen their intake of tobacco products to allow the canker sore time to heal.
  • Sores that patients get from medications, including cancer related medications, may require topical painkillers to be applied directly to the mouth sores. The healing time for medication related sores may be longer. Talk to your doctor to see if an adjustment can be made to the medications you use.

Yeast And Fungal Infections

Thrush is a common form of yeast infections in the mouth. It is caused by the candida fungus, and can be found in other moist areas of the body. People who smoke or wear dentures are at an increased risk for developing thrush. Thrush will need to be treated with medication. Antifungal medications are often prescribed by your doctor or dentist to treat thrush.

Please contact us if you have any questions about your oral health.