Understanding The Causes of Canker Sores on Gum Tissue And How To Treat Them

Small, painful canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, form on the gums, cheeks, or tongue. These sores look round or oval with a white or yellowish center and a red border and can be painful. Though safe and self-healing, canker sores can be annoying if they return frequently.

Understanding canker sore causes and treatment can help you manage and lessen their impact. Devine Dentist TX can help you treat these sores with this article, which provides information related to mouth ulcers and their treatment.

What Are Canker Sores?

Cold sores, produced by the herpes simplex virus, develop on the lips or outside the mouth. Canker sores are different. Canker sores are oral and non-contagious. There are two basic canker sore types:

• Minor Canker Sores: These are usually less than a centimeter across and heal in one to two weeks without scarring.
• Major Canker Sores: Deeper, bigger, and unpleasant. They can scar and take six weeks to heal.

Common Gum Tissue Canker Sore Causes

Although mouth ulcer causes are unknown, various variables may contribute:

• Stress and hormonal changes like menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause can cause canker sore outbreaks.
• Acidic, spicy, and salty foods, such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, chocolate, coffee, and nuts, can cause canker sores.
• Accidental mouth damage, such as biting your cheek, brushing too hard, or being pierced by sharp food, can cause gum canker sores.
• Nutritional deficiencies, notably vitamin B, iron, zinc, and folic acid, can increase the risk of canker sores. These nutrients keep gums healthy.
• Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), a foaming component in some toothpaste and mouthwashes, can trigger canker sores in sensitive people.
• Persistent canker sores can be caused by underlying health conditions, such as Celiac, Crohn’s, and autoimmune diseases. People with weakened immune systems may also develop continuous sores.

Canker Sore Symptoms

The look of gum canker sores makes them easier to spot. Consult Devine Dentist TX if your sores are taking longer to heal or if you have a fever or other unusual symptoms. Some common symptoms include –

• The canker sore and surrounding area may be swollen and red.
• Sores can hurt and sting, especially when eating acidic or spicy foods.
• Canker sore discomfort and sensitivity can make eating, drinking, and speaking painful.

Effective Gum Tissue Canker Sore Treatments

Canker sores usually heal on their own. However, various mouth ulcer treatments can reduce pain and speed healing. A few treatment methods are given below:

• B-complex vitamins, zinc, and iron can boost the immune system and prevent sores if nutritional deficits are suspected.
• Avoiding mouth-irritating foods helps prevent canker sores from worsening. Acidic, spicy, and salty meals irritate readily.
• Mouth sore gels and ointments are available at several drugstores. These products commonly numb and relieve pain with benzocaine or lidocaine.
• Hydrogen peroxide, an antimicrobial, can clean and prevent sores. Dilute it with equal parts water and apply it to the sore with a cotton swab. Do not consume the solution.
• Mix a teaspoon of salt or baking soda with a cup of warm water, swish, and spit out. Saltwater and baking soda rinses reduce inflammation, improve healing, and make your mouth less bacterial. 
• A dentist may prescribe corticosteroids to relieve inflammation and pain in severe or persistent canker sores. However, long-term use might have negative effects, so these are reserved for severe cases.

Homemade Canker Sore Pain Treatments

Some simple home remedies as suggested by Devine Dentist TX can relieve canker sore pain in addition to medical treatment:

• Applying a tiny amount of aloe vera gel to the sore may soothe and speed recovery.
• Numbing the sore with an ice chip or cold compress can lessen discomfort and swelling.
• Due to its antibacterial qualities, honey reduces inflammation and speeds up the healing of canker sores. Apply a little to the sore several times a day.

Gum Tissue Canker Sore Prevention

If you get canker sores, you can reduce their frequency. Follow these prevention tips by Devine Dentist TX for better oral health.

• Dry mouths can cause canker sores, so drink lots of water.
• If conventional toothpaste causes sores, try SLS-free toothpaste.
• Stress is a known trigger, so try meditation, deep breathing, or yoga.
• Getting enough vitamins and minerals can help gums and prevent sores.
• Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly without excess force. Use a gentle toothbrush to avoid gum irritation.

When to See a Dentist

Most canker sores heal within two weeks; however, if you experience them, consult Devine Dentist TX.

• Sores without a cause
• Severe pain or eating issues
• Sores longer than three weeks
• Infection symptoms like fever and enlarged lymph nodes

Conclusion

Canker sores on gums are prevalent and painful. You can lessen the frequency and severity of these irritating sores by studying their causes, symptoms, and treatment and preventative methods. Consult Devine Dentist TX if canker sores persist or hurt.