Canker sores are ulcerations that develop inside your mouth. They are found on the inside of the cheeks or lips, under the tongue and at the bottom of the gums. It’s estimated that 20 percent of the American population suffers from canker sores at some time. There are many causes of canker sores including stress, a weakened immunity system, allergies, hormones and vitamin deficiencies. They can also be caused by having recent dental work done. Read this informative article and find out about “Canker Sores Caused by Dental Work and What to Do About Them.”
How Can Dental Work Cause Canker Sores?
If during a visit to your dentist or oral surgeon, the inside of your mouth gets nicked or cut, that minor injury can turn into a canker sore. Anytime, in fact, that the inside of your mouth receives a similar type of injury – such as when you bite your cheek, brush or floss your teeth too hard, or poke your mouth with a fork while eating – the opening can become irritated. It can then become a canker sore.
What to Do About Canker Sores Related to Dental Work
Your dentist obviously didn’t mean for your mouth to get poked, but accidents happen. If a canker sore formed because of a procedure your dentist performed, it will probably heal on its own in a week or so. You can help aid the healing process by trying these home remedies:
1. Salt Water Rinse – Dissolve a quarter teaspoon of table salt in a cup of warm water. Swish the solution around your mouth for a minute or so. Do this three or four times a day to help quicken the healing of the canker sore.
2. Hydrogen Peroxide and Water- Mix together a 50/50 solution of hydrogen peroxide and water. Use sterile cotton balls to dab this solution on your canker sore three to four times a day.
To help speed the healing, avoid using toothpaste and mouthwash that contains sodium lauryl sulfate. Avoid eating hard, crunchy or spicy foods. And avoid acidic foods and drinks that can further irritate the area.
If your canker sore is extremely sore or doesn’t begin to heal within a few days, contact your dentist. The sore may be caused by a dental device that’s not fitted properly. For example, if you had some teeth extracted and received dentures, the apparatus may be rubbing against the inside of your mouth. Your dentist can examine your mouth and determine if this is the cause of your canker sore.
Your dentist can also prescribe an over-the-counter medication to help heal the canker sore. They may also give you a prescription.
