Mouth sores could be worrisome as they are often painful resulting from a break in the lining of the mouth. They are often caused by the following:
- Biting your cheek/lip
- Irritation from a broken tooth
- Irritation from an artificial tooth not fitting well or from a displaced dental appliance
- Allergies to certain foods
- Nutritional deficiencies(iron, vitamin B12 and folic acid) and
- Stress: Many tend to develop mouth ulcers around an examination period due to the stress of preparation.
Treatment.
Sores generally heal within 7-14 days without any treatment. However, the following will reduce pain and prevent it from worsening:
- Maintain a good oral hygiene
- Avoid touching/rubbing sores with tongue/fingers
- Avoid peppery/salty food
- Avoid acidic fruits
- Drink fluids
- Use warm water and salt mouth rinse (click link)
- Numbing gels sold over the counter can be applied on the surface to reduce pain.
- Pain relieving medications such as paracetamol will reduce pain and discomfort.
If sores do not heal within 3 weeks, please see your Dentist.
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