Learn How to Diagnose and Treat Mouth Sores and Infection

January 16, 2020, 3V Dental Associates

In their most minor manifestations, mouth anomalies can precipitate significant discomfort and render simple activities like speaking and eating difficult. In other instances, said occurrences may be symptomatic of a more serious underlying condition. That said, a simple, minor oral ulcer known as a canker sore will often impact many people at some point in their lives.

Read our latest blog post on mouth sores, treatment, diagnosis, and more!

Causes of Mouth Sores

There are numerous different causes for oral ulcers. Arguably, the most common type of mouth blemishes are canker and cold sores. These issues are often resultant of a minor infection that typically clears within a few days to several weeks. However, dental sores can also be related to far more serious ailments such as vitamin deficiencies, certain digestive problems, dental injuries such as the accidental biting of the cheek, gum or tongue, more significant infections like mononucleosis and, in rarer instances, cancer.

Symptoms Related to Mouth Sores

Specific symptoms may vary depending upon the exact underlying condition and said malady's severity. That said, one of the most obvious signs is a bump or redness that develops in some oral component like the gums, cheek or tongue. Said ulcer is often accompanied by pain. In some instances, associated discomfort could manifest in a tingling or burning sensation.

When the specific cause is a minor oral infection, the cautionary signs will typically be confined to the mouth. However, when said malady is symptomatic of a more significant illness, the afflicted subject might experience additional signs including but not necessarily limited to elevated body temperature, digestive issues, rashes and body aches. Moreover, frequent outbreaks of cold sores may indicate the presence of a more serious ailment and should be investigated by a medical or dental professional.

Diagnosis

Oral sores are relatively easy to detect, dissipate on their own accord and do not require further medical investigation unless accompanied by more serious symptoms. However, individuals who might not be sure and are experiencing excessive distress should visit their dentist. Said professional will perform a thorough examination of the entire mouth and will often be able to ascertain the underlying cause. Should said oral care expert be unable to pinpoint the exact cause, they might recommend further examination with a healthcare provider.

Related Conditions

Related conditions often include those that produce elicit sores or rashes. Maladies that might appear similar to mouth sores include chicken pox or other systemic bodily rashes.

Potential Treatment Options of Mouth Sores

The specific treatment protocol administered by a stricken individual's dentist or physician will greatly depend upon the exact precipitating cause. Should the ailment be diagnosed as a sign of a more serious problem, addressing said malady may prove effective in reducing or eliminating associated oral ulcers.

That said, when the blemish is the result of a simple, non-threatening injury or infection, several remedial efforts may be employed including:

Time

In most cases, uncomplicated oral sores will clear on their own within a couple weeks.

Topical Applications

Products such as over-the-counter creams, gels or ointments containing anti-microbial or pain-relieving substances might alleviate associated discomfort or exacerbate the recovery process.

Medications

In more severe presentations of oral ulcers, certain prescription medications might prove effective treatment options.

Prevention

Akin to assessing treatment options, the prevention of mouth ulcers will be contingent upon the underlying factors. In instances where the ailment is produced by a specific health issue, addressing said malady might serve as an effective preventative measure. However, in less complicated cases, prevention may be achieved through practices such as limiting one's intake of excessively hot or cold food or beverages, routinely visiting their dentist, maintaining dental hygiene and promptly treating any dental injuries.

Contact 3V Dental Associates

If you have questions or concerns about your oral health or mouth sores, contact our Port Washington dental clinic today and speak with our helpful staff.

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