Fix Canker Sores
Canker sores can be identified by a white spot with surrounding redness and can be very painful but can usually be diagnosed by a simple exam from your dentist. Fortunately, there are a number of treatments available to treat canker sores though chronic canker sores may be a symptom of a larger medical issue so it is important that you see your dentist and if they persist, your primary care physician to ensure there are no underlying medical issues.
How are canker sores treated?
Most canker sores are minor enough that they do not require any treatment and will go away on their own within a week or two but unusually painful or long-lasting canker sores will need medical treatment. Your dentist may recommend one or more of the following:
- Topical oral products such as toothpaste, creams, or liquids can help relieve pain and shorten healing time. A number of options are available over the counter or your dentist may prescribe something. Active ingredients to look for include: Benzocaine, found in Orabase, Anbesol, Zilactin-B, and Kank-A; Hydrogen Peroxide, found in Peroxyl and Orajel Antiseptic Mouth Sore Rinse; and Fluicinonide, found in Lidex and Vanos. If you do not want to use a product that contains an active ingredient, there are topical agents available which your doctor can help you choose.
- Nutritional supplements such as folic acid, vitamin B6 or B12, or zinc, may help heal canker sores.
- Mouthwash containing dexamethasone will help reduce pain and inflammation. Dexamethasone is a steroid that can be beneficial in treating multiple or extremely painful canker sores.
- Oral medications may be prescribed if you are canker sores are particularly severe and do not respond to mouthwash or topical treatments. There are medications available that are not specifically for canker sores but have proved successful in treating them. An oral steroid may also be prescribed but this is considered a last resort because of side effects.
- Cauterizing the sore using either an instrument or a chemical will sear and destroy the affected tissue. Chemical cautery solutions include silver nitrate and debacterol.
Can I heal my canker sore at home?
To help speed the healing process and relieve your pain, there are a few steps you can take at home which include:
- Warm salt water rinse or warm baking soda rinse
- Avoiding acidic, spicy, and crunchy foods that will further irritate the area
- Use ice chips to soothe the area by allowing them to slowly dissolve in your mouth
- Dab a small amount of milk of magnesia onto your canker sore a few times a day
When you decided it is time to see your dentist, let them know when you first noticed the canker sore and what home remedies you have tried. This will help them determine what treatment will best serve to get you out of pain and heal your canker sore.