Canker Sores and Your Dental Health | Ventura Bright Dental

Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, are small but painful sores that form inside your mouth—often on the soft tissues such as your tongue, cheeks, or gums. While these lesions are not contagious like cold sores, they can make eating, drinking, or even speaking uncomfortable. At Ventura Bright Dental, we understand how frustrating these recurring mouth ulcers can be and are here to help identify the causes, provide relief, and support your long-term oral health.

What Causes Canker Sores?

The exact cause of canker sores is not always clear, but several factors can contribute to their development. Common triggers include:

• Stress or anxiety

• Minor mouth injuries (such as biting your cheek or irritation from braces)

• Hormonal changes

• Food sensitivities, especially to citrus or spicy foods

• Vitamin deficiencies, particularly B12, iron, or folate

• Underlying health conditions like Celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, or immune system issues

If you experience frequent or severe canker sores, it may indicate an underlying health concern that should be evaluated by your dentist or physician.

Symptoms of Canker Sores

Canker sores usually appear as round or oval ulcers with a white or yellow center and a red border. You may experience:

• A tingling or burning sensation before the sore appears

• Pain when eating or speaking

• Swelling or irritation near the sore

• Difficulty brushing due to discomfort

Simple canker sores typically heal within 1 to 2 weeks, while complex or larger ulcers may take longer and require treatment.

Treatment and Relief Options

Most canker sores heal naturally, but several remedies can help relieve discomfort and speed up healing:

• Saltwater rinses: Rinsing with warm salt water several times a day can reduce inflammation and bacteria.

• Topical gels or ointments: Over-the-counter numbing agents can soothe pain and protect the sore while it heals.

• Avoiding irritants: Steer clear of acidic or spicy foods that can worsen the pain.

• Professional care: For persistent or recurring sores, our team at Ventura Bright Dental can recommend specialized treatments, such as prescription mouth rinses or medicated gels to reduce pain and inflammation.

Preventing Canker Sores

Prevention starts with good oral hygiene and a balanced lifestyle.

• Eat a nutrient-rich diet high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

• Manage stress through relaxation techniques.

• Avoid foods that tend to trigger sores.

• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to prevent trauma to oral tissues.

If you find yourself struggling with frequent canker sores, schedule a visit with our doctor at Ventura Bright Dental. We’ll help determine possible causes and provide personalized recommendations to protect your oral health and comfort.

Visit Us:
Ventura Bright Dental
3450 Loma Vista Rd, Ventura, CA 93003
Call: (805) 666-1919
www.venturabrightdental.com

Disclaimer:

The information on this website is for educational purposes only. Ventura Bright Dental is not responsible for any decisions made based on this content. Always consult your dentist or healthcare professional for advice specific to your situation.