While talking with a patient the other week we started talking about Canker Sores and she was interested in learning more about it. As this is an ailment most, if not all, of us will experience once or several times in our lives, I am passing the information on to you as well.
Canker Sore is the generic name for an Aphthous Ulcer. A common mistake people make is using canker sore and cold sore interchangeably. They are not the same thing; a cold sore is usually seen outside of the mouth whereas a canker sore is within the mouth.
There is no exact known cause for canker sores; however, it is believed some causes can be attributed to stress, trauma, citric foods/liquids, or allergies. It is a known fact, if you have gotten them once you are more likely to get them again and again. To lesson your chances of getting the sores again you should try and avoid the “believed” causes.
So what are we going to do about these sores? There a few things that can be done to help, but it won’t eliminate them right away. One option is to try an Aphthasol gel. Apply this to the canker sore 4 times a day. You should be able to buy this at any local convenience or drug store. Another solution is a mouthwash we have at the office called Chlorhexidine. We have seen this mouthwash reduce the life span of the canker sores. The last option is get a prescription for a mild steroid ointment called Lidex, which you would apply 4-6 times a day.
Hope this helps!
Dr Hafen
Proudly Providing Caring Dentistry
for the residents of
Universal City, Converse, Live Oak, Schertz and Cibilo
for the residents of
Universal City, Converse, Live Oak, Schertz and Cibilo
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