Canker Sores Information and Prevention

Feb 19
17:16

2008

Juliet Cohen

Juliet Cohen

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Canker wounds can be inherited. They may also be related to problems with the body 's immune (defence).

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Chronic Recurrent Aphthae,Canker Sores Information and Prevention Articles also known as aphthous ulcers. Canker sores are small shallow ulcers that appear in the mouth and are often uncomfortable talking and eating. Canker sores are a common form of ulcers of the mouth. They occur most often in women than in men. They can occur at any age but most often first appear between the ages of 10 and 40. 30-85% of the American population have at some time in their lives. Canker sores usually appear on the inside of the cheeks and lips, tongue, soft palate, and the base of gums.

The lesions may occur after an injury due to the mouth dental work. Canker sores can be triggered by emotional stress, nutritional deficiencies, menstruation, hormonal changes, food allergies, and the same state. They occur most commonly with viral infections. Most canker sores heal on their own in a few days to a few weeks. Treatment is usually necessary. Severe mouth ulcers may need to be treated with an antibiotic called tetracycline. Other over-the-counter remedies have benzocaine, menthol, and eucalyptol in them. These need to be applied repeatedly and may sting at first. Using a toothpaste that does not contain SLS (sodium lauryl sulfate).

Other ingredients irritant, avoid chewing gum, hard, crunchy spicy foods or mouth can help reduce irritation. Brushing your teeth after meals, using a soft toothbrush and dental floss every day to keep your mouth free food that could cause a canker painful. Tamponner a mixture of equal parts water and hydrogen peroxide directly on the wound. Liquids or ointments with numbness ingredients such as benzocaine (Anbesol, Orabase, Tanac) help alleviate the discomfort of mouth ulcers. Another mixture that can be useful is composed of 1-2 tablespoons of Maalox mixed with half a tablespoon of liquid diphenhydramine (Benadryl).

Canker Sores Treatment and Prevention Tips

1. Cimetidine (Tagamet) may be useful in treating canker sores.

2. Anti-inflammatory medicines called corticosteroids are used in rare cases.

3. Using a toothpaste that does not contain SLS (sodium lauryl sulfate).

4. Avoiding chewing gum, hard, crunchy or spicy foods may help reduce mouth irritation.

5. Using a soft toothbrush and flossing every day will also keep your mouth free of food.

6. Liquids or ointments such as benzocaine help relieve the discomfort of canker sores.

7. Tetracycline suspensions used as a mouthwash can relieve pain.