The mouth is a highly sensitive part of the body, and dealing with issues like sensitive teeth or sores can be quite unpleasant, especially when it interferes with enjoying your favorite foods. Often, the exact problem is only revealed when you attempt to eat. For instance, experiencing a sudden sharp pain in your gums when consuming something hot or taking a sip of a drink could indicate the presence of a canker sore. These sores, commonly located inside the mouth on areas like the lips, tongue, or inner cheeks, create an uncomfortable tingling sensation that worsens as they swell. If you're noticing tingling in your gums during meals, it may be due to canker sores. Discover more about them and how to treat them effectively:
What is the reason behind a canker sore?
Dentists who care for patients with canker sores state that these can result from various factors, including both oral health issues and other conditions:
Physical effects of mental and emotional stress.
Injury to the mouth.
Viral infections.
Hormonal imbalances and changes.
Food and drink allergies.
Deficiencies in vitamin B12, folate, and iron.
Any of these elements, individually or in combination, can readily lead to the formation of those annoying circular ulcers on your lips, tongue, inner cheeks, or even near the gumline. You will be alerted to their presence as soon as you experience a tingling feeling or sharp pain while eating.
Do I have a canker sore?
Experiencing a sharp sensation from consuming something too hot or too cold can lead to tingling sensations, which often indicate tooth sensitivity. It is crucial to differentiate between tingling feelings to determine whether it is due to sensitivity or the presence of a canker sore.
Canker sores manifest as circular ulcers found on the tongue, inside the cheeks, lips, and near the gumline. When consuming hot, citrusy, acidic, or spicy foods, one may notice the development of canker sores, causing swelling and discomfort ranging from tingling to pain. Making dietary adjustments by incorporating foods rich in vitamins and minerals like salmon, parsley, kale, carrots, spinach, and yogurt can help prevent and alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with canker sores. These foods contain essential nutrients such as vitamin B12, folate, and iron, which contribute to this preventive effect.
How to relieve canker sores?
Canker sores typically resolve on their own within one to two weeks. Although some sores may be more persistent, there are effective solutions available. Over-the-counter topical anesthetics and antimicrobial mouthwashes can help manage stubborn canker sores and alleviate the associated discomfort.
Get rid of canker sores for good
Ultimately, nobody really wants to deal with canker sores. That's why it's important to consistently prioritize your oral health to prevent these sores from developing in the first place. Transitioning to a soft-bristled toothbrush for use after meals and maintaining a daily flossing routine can help create a healthy oral environment. Opting for a soft-bristled brush is key to avoiding mouth injuries, particularly those stemming from improper or aggressive brushing, a common cause of canker sores. Prioritizing good oral hygiene also contributes to clean and healthy gums, lowering the likelihood of infections and ulcers such as canker sores.
Consult your dentist regarding long-term oral health
Canker sores and other types of ulcers and infections are signs of oral health issues that require extra attention to improve. While canker sores can be triggered by factors beyond your control, such as allergies and hormonal changes, your dentist can offer assistance with various aspects related to this condition. By attending regular dental checkups and cleanings, your dentist can address the causes and symptoms of canker sores, as well as help you establish better oral hygiene practices. Mouth sores may also result from sensitivity to certain dental ingredients present in your daily routine without your knowledge. For example, some toothpaste formulations containing sodium lauryl sulfate can worsen discomfort from existing sores. Therefore, it is essential to consult your dentist for guidance on managing canker sores and other oral infections. Even if you consume foods rich in vitamin B12, folate, and iron like kale and salmon, it may not be effective if you continue using products that trigger sensitivity reactions. Regular dental checkups enable you to adopt healthy oral habits and receive appropriate oral treatments to effectively address canker sores and infections. Maintain a bright smile by understanding how routine dental checkups and cleanings can enhance oral health and prevent recurring infections. Schedule an appointment with Lux Dental today by calling 604-670-1256.
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