Canker Sore : What is it & treatments

Overview
A shallow and painful ulcer or sore on the inside of the mouth. This makes eating and talking difficult.

Symptoms
The sore forms inside the mouth, on the tongue or at the base of gums. It has a red border and white or yellow center. It is painful and makes eating and talking difficult.

Causes
Though the exact cause is unknown certain factors like injury, stress, vitamin deficiency could be responsible.

Diagnosis
It is usually self-diagnosable. Consultation may be required if it does not cure for over a week.

→ Common treatment options

→ How is this diagnosed?

Highlights
Can usually be self-diagnosed
Rarely requires lab test or imaging
Can last several days or weeks
More common in females
Family history may increase likelihood
Medications
Therapeutic mouthwashes: Help reduce pain and inflammation.

Hydrogen peroxide . Dexamethasone . Chlorhexidine

Topical products: Certain over-the-counter gels and creams reduce pain and help in faster healing.

Benzocaine . Fluocinonide

Nutritional supplements: Help in faster healing.

Folic acid . Vitamin B6 . Vitamin B12 . zinc

→ Questions to ask your doctor

→ Interested to know more? Check out the full article here

For informational purposes only. Consult a medical professional for advice.