Are you dealing with the painful and annoying discomfort of canker sores? At Sovrle Dental Clinic, we understand how painful and frustrating they can be. Our team in North York, Ontario is here to help you understand, manage, and find relief from canker sores, ensuring your smile remains healthy and comfortable.
What are canker sores?
Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, are small, round sores that form on the soft tissues inside your mouth, such as your cheeks, lips, tongue, or at the base of your gums. They are often white or yellow with a red, inflamed border. While they are a common condition, they can be quite painful.
Canker sore vs. cold sore: Are they the same thing?
Canker sores and cold sores are two different conditions.
Canker sores are not contagious and appear inside the mouth. They are not caused by a virus.
Cold sores are highly contagious, caused by the herpes simplex virus, and typically appear outside the mouth, on or around the lips.
Canker sore vs. abscess
While both can be painful mouth lesions, they are fundamentally different. A canker sore is a surface ulcer, whereas a dental abscess is an infection around the root of a tooth or in the gums. A canker sore will eventually heal on its own; a dental abscess requires immediate professional dental treatment to prevent serious complications.
Note: If you believe you may have a dental abscess, please contact us immediately for Emergency Dental Services.
Symptoms and Causes
What are the symptoms of canker sores?
The most common symptom is a painful, tingling, or burning sensation in the mouth, followed by the appearance of a small, round ulcer which is very sensitive. The sore may be white or yellow with a bright red border.
What causes canker sores?
The exact cause is not fully understood, but triggers can include:
Minor mouth injuries: This can happen from dental work, accidentally biting your cheek, or brushing too hard.
Nutritional deficiencies: A lack of vitamins like B12, zinc, folic acid, or iron can be a factor.
Food sensitivities: Certain foods, especially acidic or spicy ones, can trigger canker sores. Acidic candies or sugary drinks can also contribute to cold sores.
Alcohol: alcohol in drinks and in mouthwashes can irritate and dry the mouth, triggering canker sores.
Smoking or vaping: the harmful chemicals in smoke and vapes trigger canker sores and an array of other negative effects. If you need help quitting smoking, you are welcome to talk to us.
Hormonal changes (estrogen and/or progesterone): This is common during pregnancy or menstruation.
Stress: High levels of stress can lead to canker sore outbreaks.
Certain dental products: Toothpastes and mouthwashes containing sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) can cause sores in some individuals.
Can braces or Invisalign cause canker sores?
Yes, the friction from braces and retainers like Invisalign can irritate your mouth if not fitted properly, leading to canker sores.
Can mouthguards cause canker sores?
Yes, the friction from mouthguards can also be a common cause of canker sores. The edges of the mouthguard (if not fitted properly) may rub against the cheeks or tongue, irritating tissue and potentially causing a canker sore to form.
How long do canker sores last?
Most canker sores heal on their own within one to two weeks. However, there are ways to manage the discomfort and promote healing.
Diagnosis and Treatment at Sovrle Dental Clinic
How are canker sores diagnosed?
A canker sore can usually be diagnosed with a visual examination. Our dentists at Sovrle Dental Clinic can easily identify a canker sore and rule out more serious conditions.
Canker sore laser treatment
At Sovrle Dental, we use modern soft tissue lasers to provide a highly effective and quick treatment for canker sores. Laser treatment significantly reduces pain and inflammation, providing immediate relief and promoting a faster healing process, often within just a few days.
Medication treatments for canker sores
Depending on the severity of the canker sore, our dentists may prescribe medication:
Gels : Products like Gingigel contain 0.2 % hyaluronic acid which helps reduce inflammation, promote healing, and provide temporary relief from pain.
Prevention
Can I prevent canker sores?
While you can't always prevent canker sores, you can reduce their frequency by:
Maintaining good oral hygiene: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid irritating your gums.
Avoiding trigger foods: Pay attention to what you eat. Common culprits include spicy foods, citrus fruits, and nuts.
Managing stress: Find healthy ways to cope with stress, as it can be a major trigger.
Consulting with us: If you get canker sores often, we can discuss potential vitamin deficiencies and recommend a SLS-free toothpaste.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
Don't let canker sores be a pain! Schedule an appointment at Sovrle Dental Clinic in North York today. Our friendly and professional team is here to help you get the relief you need!
