Free Dental Directory of Diseases, Aliments and Solutions

Sores that develop inside the mouth can be placed into the following categories:

• Canker Sores
• White Sores on Tongue or Inside the Cheek
• Gum Boil
• Other Sores Inside the Mouth

[BACK TO TOP]

Canker Sores (Not Caused by a Virus):

Canker sores (apthous ulcers) are small, circular, white or gray inside and bordered in red.  They occur inside the mouth and should not be confused with cold sores, which occur outside the mouth.  Their exact cause is still uncertain, but they often begin to develop:

• after the inside of the jaw or lip is accidentally bitten

• there is an increase in stress

• a change in diet

Unlike cold sores, canker sores are not contagious, but they can remain for as long as two weeks.

           Treatment:

Use over-the-counter medications such as Kank-Aid™ or Orajel™ that numb the pain and lay a thin protective film over the sore.  Avoid hot, spicy or acidic foods

[BACK TO TOP] 

White Sores On Tongue Or Inside The Cheek (Accompanied By Pain):

Several causes exist for white oral sores.  One of the most common is an autoimmune disorder called Lichen Planus.

            Treatment:

A thorough checkup by your Dentist is a must.

[BACK TO TOP] 

Gum Boil:

An infection of the pulp of the tooth can spread into the tissues adjacent to the root tips and erupt into the outer surface of the gums as a red, fluid-filled swelling called a gum boil.  In many cases, the infection will actually produce a hole in the jawbone.  Left untreated, this condition could be life threatening.

            Treatment:

See your Dentist immediately.  The infection must be controlled prior to creating more serious overall health related problems.  The infected pulp must be cleaned out via a root canal, and the weakened tooth needs to be repaired with a crown.

[BACK TO TOP] 

Other Sores Inside The Mouth:

Sores may result from chewing, punctures, and loose dentures.

            Treatment:

If the sore is bleeding significantly, control the bleeding with a rolled up sterile gauze or a clean cloth, then contact your Dentist.  For smaller, non-bleeding sores, apply an over-the-counter, film-forming product such as Kank-Aid™ or Orajel™ that will numb the injured area.

Persistent mouth sores could be symptoms of a serious condition.  Most Dentists recommend you contact them about any mouth sore that does not heal within two weeks.

[BACK TO TOP]

2001 All Rights Reserved