Typically, a canker sore is a mildly painful inconvenience that is forgotten about within a week. However, the origins of this oral annoyance are largely unknown. There are situations where canker sores are more serious or could be a sign of other health problems. Here is everything you need to know, including when to schedule an appointment with a dentist.

What Is a Canker Sore?

A canker sore is an open ulcer in your mouth, typically affecting the soft tissues such as the tongue or the inside of your cheeks or lips. They look like small, round sores filled with gray, white, yellow, or clear fluid surrounded by a red border. 

While minor and herpetiform canker sores tend to cause minor pain and heal within a week, major canker sores are larger, much more painful, and can persist for two weeks or longer. Herpetiform canker sores tend to form in clusters and often reoccur. 

What Are the Causes?

The cause of most canker sores is unclear, but there are certain factors that have been confirmed to increase your chances of developing one, including mouth injuries, stress, acidic foods, NSAID medications, allergies, and hormonal changes. Frequently recurring canker sores can also suggest the presence of certain medical disorders, including Celiac and Crohn's diseases, Lupus, HIV, vitamin deficiencies, cancerous or precancerous oral lesions, and helicobacter pylori infection.

What Are the Treatment Options?

If your canker sores recur frequently, grow large and painful, or cause a fever to develop, it is time to visit a dentist. Underlying health issues may be part of the problem. Even if that does not end up being the case, there are treatment options available. They include prescription mouthwashes, topical steroids, pain relievers, and nutritional supplements. Large and painful sores can also be cauterized, either chemically or with a laser.

If you're dealing with frequent or persistent canker sores, you can turn to Christopher F. Heck DMD at Montgomery Dentistry. This compassionate second-generation dentist and his friendly staff make up Montgomery, Ohio's premiere family dental practice, serving patients in all stages of life. Visit their website or call (513)794-1884 for more information or to schedule an appointment.