Canker Sores Definition, Reason, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
Definition
Canker sores are inflammation that occurs in the mucous lining of the mouth. Pain can be felt in the cheeks, gums, inside of the lips, or tongue.
Thrush is one of the most common oral diseases experienced by people. The healing period is usually around 7 days to months. If canker sores are more than 2 weeks, you should immediately consult a dentist.
Canker Sores Symptom
Most canker sores are round or oval in shape with a white or yellow center and a reddish border. Commonly affected areas are under the tongue, on the inside of the cheeks or lips, at the base of the gums, or the roof of the mouth.
There are three types of canker sores, such as canker sores minor, canker sores major, and canker sores herpetiformis.
Minor canker sores are a common type of canker sores and are usually small in size. It is oval in shape with reddish edges. Can heal without leaving a scar in 1-2 weeks.
Meanwhile, major canker sores are rare. Usually, these canker sores are larger and deeper than minor canker sores. Sufferers will feel very painful when experiencing it. It can take up to six weeks to heal and can leave scars.
Thrush herpetiformis is also rare. These canker sores are small in size but numerous, have irregular edges and can heal within 1-2 weeks without leaving scars.
Canker Sores Reason
The cause of canker sores is not known for certain, but it can be triggered by several factors:
- stress
- Food allergies
- Mouth injuries/trauma (such as sharp dentures, toothbrushes that are too tight, etc.)
- Viral or bacterial infection of the mouth
- Dry mouth
- Immunity changes
- Use of certain drugs
- Menstrual cycle
- Sour drink
- genetic factor
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of canker sores can be established by interview and direct examination of all oral mucosal tissues, tongue, lips and palate.
Canker Sores Treatment
Treatment for canker sores is symptomatic, namely by treating the symptoms that arise.
For mild canker sores, you can use an antibacterial mouthwash, such as 0.2% chlorhexidine.
Then, for the treatment of mild to moderate canker sores, you can use antibacterial mouthwash or mouthwash containing a local anesthetic. Like benzydamine 0.15% or lignocaine gel 2%. Apply to the affected area, then gargle with 1g/5ml sucralfate, do not swallow.
For moderate-severe canker sores, you can use antibacterial mouthwash or mouthwash containing a local anesthetic. Like benzydamine 0.15% or lignocaine gel 2%. Apply to the affected area, then gargle with 1g/5ml sucralfate, do not swallow. If necessary, add pain medication.
If an infection is diagnosed, give antibiotics for bacterial infections, antivirals for viral infections, and antifungals for fungal infections. Check with an oral disease specialist to get clearer information about canker sores.