A
canker sore (an aphthous ulcer) is a painful open sore in the mouth, which
appears as a white, yellow, or gray lesion bordered by a bright red area.
Canker sores often appear on the inner surface of the cheeks, lips, tongue
and the base of the gum. Most patients experience a tingling and/or burning
sensation followed by a bump that then ulcerates and is painful for 7-10
days. Acidic foods tend to aggravate the sores and like all ulcers, they
are very difficult to treat. There are over-the-counter medications that
may offer relief to the discomfort, but they need to be started at the
first sign of the sore. Antimicrobial mouthrinses may also alleviate some
of the discomfort and the sores generally heal within one to two weeks.
Canker sores are very common and tend to occur more often in women than
men. Professional treatment is usually not necessary, however if the sores
persist for more than a month or continue to return, you should contact
the office to have Dr. Hopgood evaluate the area.
Advanced Dental Concepts
Richard D. Hopgood D.M.D., M.A.G.D.
296 Lowell Street
Andover, MA 01810
Telephone: 978-475-2431
Email: info@andoverdmd.com
A
canker sore (an aphthous ulcer) is a painful open sore in the mouth, which
appears as a white, yellow, or gray lesion bordered by a bright red area.
Canker sores often appear on the inner surface of the cheeks, lips, tongue
and the base of the gum. Most patients experience a tingling and/or burning
sensation followed by a bump that then ulcerates and is painful for 7-10
days. Acidic foods tend to aggravate the sores and like all ulcers, they
are very difficult to treat. There are over-the-counter medications that
may offer relief to the discomfort, but they need to be started at the
first sign of the sore. Antimicrobial mouthrinses may also alleviate some
of the discomfort and the sores generally heal within one to two weeks.
Canker sores are very common and tend to occur more often in women than
men. Professional treatment is usually not necessary, however if the sores
persist for more than a month or continue to return, you should contact
the office to have Dr. Hopgood evaluate the area.