Identifying and Treating Mouth Sores
Sores in the mouth are more common than you think. More than 80% of people are effected by some sort of canker or cold sore. These mouth sores vary in symptoms and severity and can lead to further health complications if left untreated. Below we have complied a list of key factors to look out for when you are experiencing mouth pain or irritations.
If you are having sensations of burning or tingling, along with redness or white bumps forming in or around your mouth, you may be suffering from some type of mouth sore or viral infection.
Canker Sores
A small, shallow sore in side the mouth, or at the base of the gums.
- The main symptom is a painful sore in the mouth that can make it hard to eat and talk.
- Most canker sores clear on their own in one to two weeks. Treatments, if needed, include mouth rinses, pastes, and medication.
Cold Sores
Infection with herpes simplex virus around the border of the lips
- Oral herpes causes tiny, fluid-filled lesions called cold sores or fever blisters, which can recur.
- Medications can speed healing and reduce recurrence.
Stomatitis
A condition that causes painful swelling and sores inside the mouth
- Symptoms include swelling and redness inside the mouth or individual painful sores that can make it uncomfortable to eat
- Underlying conditions require treatment. Avoidance of the triggering substance and use of topical medications also may help.
