The Best Treatments For Hormonal Gingivitis
Here’s how hormones can put you at risk of developing gingivitis and gum disease and the treatments available to protect your teeth and gums. Keep reading to learn more.
What is a Canker Sore?
A canker sore is an ulcer that develops in the mouth – typically on the tongue or lips – and can cause irritation and discomfort. The exact cause of this common oral health issue is not known, but some studies have linked canker sores to:
- Viral infections
- Hormone changes
- Food sensitivities
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Stress
You may be able to help prevent canker sores by reducing your intake of certain foods, though triggers are different from person to person and discovering which foods aggravate your sores is often a process of experimentation.
Are Canker Sores Dangerous?
While not generally a concern, canker sores that are recurrent or last for more than two weeks may require medical assistance. The Woodlands dentist Dr. Scott Young may also need to prescribe a medication to help alleviate pain and speed the process of recovery when canker sores get worse over time or are accompanied by other symptoms such as fever and rash.
Treating Canker Sores
Many home remedies can be used to treat canker sores. Among these are:
- Over-the-counter mouthwashes with peroxide
- An infusion of sage and chamomile applied four to six times daily
- Zinc gluconate lozenges
- Vitamin C, vitamin B complex, and lysine
While these are far from foolproof measures for the treatment of canker sores, they can help speed recovery and may assist in minimizing discomfort. If they prove ineffective, Dr. Young can evaluate your ulcer to see if a more advanced approach is necessary.
If you have developed a persistent canker sore, please contact us to schedule an appointment today. Located in The Woodlands, our dentists welcome patients from Houston and all surrounding areas of Texas.
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