I Have Sores In My Mouth What Do I Do?

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:

  1. Biting your cheek/lip 
  2. Irritation from a broken tooth 
  3. Irritation from an artificial tooth not fitting well or from a displaced dental appliance 
  4. Allergies to certain foods
  5. Nutritional deficiencies(iron, vitamin B12 and folic acid) and 
  6. 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.

Photo credit: HealthTap

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