A CANKER SORE, a shallow ulcer that can develop on the inside of the cheeks or lips, can mean days of discomfort. Different things can trigger a canker sore. The most common are a bitten lip or cheek (which only becomes easier to bite again when it swells), long periods of stress and the strain that puts on the immune system, illness, poking braces wires or ill-fitting dentures, and highly acidic foods like lemons, strawberries, tomatoes, and pineapple.
Avoiding Triggers
Anyone who frequently develops canker sores should identify the triggers and try to avoid them, because an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. This could mean cutting back on acidic foods, using dental wax during orthodontic treatment, and reducing stress levels.
Tips for Managing a Canker Sore
Here are a few tips to help with canker sores when they appear:
1. Rinse with warm salt water to help the healing process.
2. Use painkillers or topical medication to reduce discomfort.
3. Find a toothpaste that doesn’t contain sodium laurel sulfate (it should still contain fluoride though).
4. Brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
5. Eat a diet rich in vitamin B12, iron, and folate (good sources include carrots, salmon, parsley, spinach, kale, and yogurt).
6. Maintain good oral hygiene habits. It’s easier to maintain good oral health when plaque is under control.
Top image used under CC0 Public Domain license. Image cropped and modified from original.
The content on this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.
Related posts
Discover the art of enhancing your smile.
How Missing Your Dental Check-Up Could Lead to Painful, Expensive Mistakes
Regular dental check-ups are one of the most important steps you can take to maintain your oral health. Yet, many people skip these routine visits, thinking they can save time or money. What many don’t realize is that neglecting preventive care often leads to more extensive and expensive dental treatments—and unnecessary pain.
The Risks of Skipping Your Six-Month Dental Cleaning and Check-Up
At Vero Dental, we believe that routine dental care is essential to a healthy smile—and skipping your six-month check-ups can have serious consequences for both your oral and overall health
What to Do If You Knock Out a Tooth: Quick Tips from Vero Dental
Accidents happen, and a knocked-out tooth is a true dental emergency. Acting quickly can improve the chances of saving it. At Vero Dental, we want you to know the best steps to take if this happens.