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Canker Sores
White Sores on Tongue or Inside of Cheek
Gum Boil
Other Sores inside the Mouth
Special Advisory
Canker Sores (not caused by a virus)
Canker sores (also called apthous ulcers) are small, circular, white or gray inside, and bordered in red. They occur inside the mouth and shouldn't be confused with cold sores, which occur outside the mouth. Their exact cause is still uncertain, but they often start when the inside of the jaw or lip is accidentally bitten or there is an increase in stress or a change in diet. Unlike cold sores, canker sores are not contagious. Canker sores 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
Minimize Canker Sores
Is Your Toothpaste Inviting Canker Sores?
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White Sores on Tongue or Inside of Cheek (accompanied by pain)
There are several causes of 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.
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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, the infected pulp must be cleaned out via a root canal, and the weakened tooth needs to be repaired with a crown.
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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 piece of sterile gauze or a clean cloth, and 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.
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Special Advisory
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.
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