Understanding Canker Sores -- Treatment
What Are the Treatments for Canker Sores?
Canker sores generally go away by themselves, and in most cases, you can safely ignore them. Many doctors suggest the use of over-the-counter ointments to relieve the discomfort of a canker sore -- such as ointments for a toothache.
Another option is to use a mouthwash, which will temporarily numb the lesions.
General Information About Oral Cancer
Oral cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the lips, mouth, or throat. Oral cancer may form in any of three main areas: Lips. Oral cavity, which includes:The front two thirds of the tongue.The gingiva (gums).The buccal mucosa (the lining of the inside of the cheeks).The floor (bottom) of the mouth under the tongue.The hard palate (the front, bony part of the roof of the mouth).The retromolar trigone (the small area behind the wisdom teeth). Oropharynx, which...
Read the General Information About Oral Cancer article > >
If your canker sore does not respond to over-the-counter or at-home treatments, your doctor may prescribe a topical medication containing a steroid for the inflammation, and lidocaine to relieve pain. Amlexanos (Aphthasol), another ointment, has been found to be helpful in some people by reducing pain and healing time.
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Only 18.5% of Americans never floss. You are missing out on a simple way to make a big difference in the health of your mouth. Regardless of how well you brush, plaque still forms between your teeth and along your gums. Floss removes food trapped between the teeth and removes the film of bacteria that forms there before it turns to plaque, which can cause inflamed gums (gingivitis), cavities, and tooth loss. Try flossing just one tooth to get started.
You are one of 31% of Americans who don't floss daily. You are missing out on a simple way to make a big difference in the health of your mouth. Regardless of how well you brush, plaque still forms between your teeth and along your gums. Toothbrush bristles alone cannot clean effectively between these tight spaces. Flossing removes up to 80% of the film that hardens to plaque, which can cause inflamed gums (gingivitis), cavities, and tooth loss. Aim for 3 more days!
You are one of 31% of Americans who don't floss daily, but you're well on your way to making a positive impact on your teeth and gums. Regardless of how well you brush, plaque still forms between your teeth and along your gums. Toothbrush bristles alone cannot clean effectively between these tight spaces. Flossing removes up to 80% of the film that hardens to plaque, which can cause inflamed gums (gingivitis), cavities, and tooth loss. Aim for all 7 days!
Only 50.5% of Americans floss daily, and good for you that you are one of them! Regardless of how well you brush, plaque still forms between your teeth and along your gums. Toothbrush bristles alone cannot clean effectively between these tight spaces. Flossing removes up to 80% of the film that hardens to plaque, which can cause inflamed gums (gingivitis), cavities, and tooth loss. Congratulations on your good oral health habit!
SOURCES:
American Dental Association, Healthy People 2010
This tool is intended only for adults 18 and older.
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