Canker sores are a form of oral sores. They are not contagious, but they can cause irritation and pain. Canker sores are caused by stress, acidic meals, and minor damage to the mouth's interior. But what are the treatment options?
Want to know more about conquering canker sores in detail? We have a guide for you. Take a look at this comprehensive guide to elevate oral care.
Quick Facts on Canker Sores:-
- Most canker sores do not require medical care and can be treated at home.
- Canker sore often heals naturally within two weeks.
What are Canker Sores?
Canker sores, or aphthous ulcers, are small, shallow ulcers that form inside your mouth. These sores are typically round or oval-shaped, white or yellowish in the center with a red border. While they can be uncomfortable and painful, especially when eating or talking, they are not contagious. Canker sores usually heal within one to two weeks without any scarring.
What are the Common Causes?
The exact cause of canker sores is a mystery, but several factors can trigger them.
Some common ones include:
- Minor mouth injuries: Biting your cheek, brushing too hard, or ill-fitting dentures can irritate the delicate tissues inside your mouth and lead to canker sores.
- Stress: Emotional stress can cause canker sores, especially if you are already prone to them.
- Dietary deficiencies: A lack of vitamin B12, zinc, iron, or folic acid might contribute to canker sores.
- Food sensitivities: Some people find that certain foods, like acidic fruits, spicy dishes, or chocolate, trigger their canker sores.
- Hormonal changes: Women may experience canker sores more frequently around their menstrual period due to hormonal fluctuations.
Know the Symptoms of Canker Sores
Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, come with a few telltale symptoms:
- Pain: This is the most common symptom. Canker sores can be quite tender, making eating, talking, and even brushing your teeth uncomfortable.
- Tingling or burning: You might experience a tingling or burning sensation in the area where the sore will develop, often a day or two before it actually appears.
- Visible sores: They are usually small, round, or oval, with a white or yellowish-gray center surrounded by a red border. They typically appear on the soft tissues inside your mouth, such as the inner cheeks, lips, tongue, or the base of your gums.
- Small size: Most canker sores are small, usually under 1 centimeter (about a third of an inch) in diameter.
What is the Role of Good Oral Care in Treating Canker Sores?
While good oral care won't directly cure canker sores, it is important to promote healing and prevent irritation that can worsen them. Here's how:
- Gentle Brushing and Flossing: Maintaining a clean mouth reduces bacteria that could infect the sore and slow healing. Use a soft-bristled brush and gently around the canker sore to avoid further irritation.
- Saltwater Rinses: Rinsing with warm salt water (a half-teaspoon of salt dissolved in a glass) can help soothe the discomfort and remove debris from the sore.
- Alcohol-free Mouthwash: Harsh mouthwashes containing alcohol can sting and irritate the canker sore. Opt for an alcohol-free, gentle mouthwash if you need additional rinsing.
- Keeping your mouth clean and avoiding further irritation can create a more favorable environment for the canker sore to heal.
Introducing Merakk's Oil Pulling Signature Collection to Soothe Canker Sores
Check out the exclusive product by Merakk to give you relaxation in canker sores:-
- Soothing Ingredients: Some ingredients, like clove oil and menthol, temporarily ease the discomfort of canker sores due to their anti-inflammatory and cooling properties.
- Overall Oral Health: It promotes a healthy mouth environment by reducing bacteria. This could indirectly help canker sores by creating a less hospitable environment for them to develop.
- Gentle and Natural Relief: Merakk's Oil Pulling Signature Collection provides a natural and effective way to soothe canker sores without harsh chemicals.
- Faster Healing: The unique blend of ingredients in Merakk's Oil Pulling Signature Collection may help accelerate the natural healing process of canker sores, getting you back to feeling your best sooner.
Final Words
In conclusion, while canker sore is inconvenient, they are usually harmless and resolve independently within two weeks. Keeping your teeth clean and using natural therapies like honey or salt rinses will help ease the pain. If you're seeking an incredible way to support a healthy oral environment, consider Merakk's Oil Pulling Signature Collection, which contains possibly calming substances. Recall that you should see a doctor for a correct diagnosis and treatment if your canker sores are severe or chronic.