Your mouth is a complex ecosystem comprising various components that work in harmony to enable essential functions such as speaking, chewing, and swallowing. However, like any intricate system, complications can arise, and one common issue is the occurrence of mouth sores. These ulcers are among the most prevalent lesions found in the oral cavity.
At Designing Smiles Dentistry, we are dedicated to prioritizing your oral health. Our dentists consider it as crucial as you do. In addition to offering comprehensive and high-quality dental care, we provide a welcoming and patient-focused environment to ensure your comfort.
While mouth sores can be painful, bothersome, and aesthetically displeasing, they are often harmless and tend to resolve on their own within six to seven days. However, if these sores persist beyond a few weeks, recur frequently, or present with additional symptoms, it is advisable to seek a thorough evaluation from your dentist.
Approximately one in five individuals experiences recurrent mouth sores. Several factors can contribute to their development, including accidentally biting the inner cheek, irritation from orthodontic appliances, specific medications, sensitivity to chemicals, underlying diseases, or side effects of chemotherapy. Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, are a type of painful ulcer that appears as a crater on the oral mucosa. They may surface during periods of emotional stress, hormonal changes, or when experiencing insomnia.
In some cases, mouth ulcers can be indicative of underlying medical conditions. These may include Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, nutritional deficiencies (such as B12, folic acid, or iron), autoimmune diseases compromising the immune system (like HIV, lupus, or reactive arthritis), or certain viral infections (such as chickenpox or herpes simplex virus-1). Although rare, persistent mouth sores could potentially signal oral cancer, necessitating a biopsy for definitive diagnosis.
At Designing Smiles Dentistry, our team of elite dental professionals possesses the knowledge, expertise, and adaptability to provide unparalleled dental care. We employ state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment to comprehensively assess the health of every aspect of your oral cavity. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us to schedule an appointment and address any concerns about mouth sores or your oral health.
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