If you have a mouth sore that lasts more than a week or two; it is vital to come in for an exam. Mouth sores can be an indicator of a disease, and an early assessment assists in preventing more serious issues down the line. If required, important treatment and pain relief can be offered. In extreme cases, we will refer you to a medical professional who specializes in ailments that can cause mouth sores.
Identifying a Mouth Sore
There are two types of mouth sores; canker sores and cold sores. Canker sores are small ulcer-like sores with a white or gray base and a red border. They are found on the inside of the mouth and while they are not contagious, they can be painful. Canker sores usually heal in a week or two. Antimicrobial mouth-rinses, over-the-counter topical anesthetics, and avoiding spicy and acidic foods assists in temporary relief while your sore is healing.
The cause of canker sores is not certain. Possible explanations include a cut on the inside of the mouth, a reaction to extreme temperatures, acids from food or drink, fatigue, stress, and allergies. Some studies point to bacteria or a virus, or a combination of these factors.
Cold sores, also called fever blisters or Herpes Simplex, are groups of fluid-filled blisters that appear around the lips, sometimes appearing under the nose or around the chin. Cold sores are contagious and painful, but generally heal in about a week. Some over-the-counter anesthetics furnish relief.
Hope on the Horizon
There are unprecedented antiviral drugs on the market that have shown promise in curtailing outbreaks, but there is currently no known cure. The initial infection, known as primary herpes, often transpires before adulthood. Once the virus infects you, it may stay in your body and remain inactive or cause periodic cold sore outbreaks. Outbreaks may be triggered by a fever, sunburn, skin abrasions, stress, or exposure to extremes in temperature.
General Dentistry in Lansdale to the Rescue
In some cases, a change in the way you care for your mouth can affect the frequency of mouth sores. If you are in the area and would like to speak with a dental professional about mouth sores or general dentistry in Lansdale, give us a call at Kevin Bass DMD Cosmetic and Family Dentistry to schedule an examination. Along with general dentistry in Lansdale, we offer cosmetic dentistry services such as porcelain veneers and teeth whitening. Call us at 215-368-1424 to schedule your appointment with us.
Contact Kevin Bass DMD Cosmetic and Family Dentistry:
215-368-1424
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
410 N Broad St
Lansdale, Pennsylvania
19446