Our children are most often our main priority and generally most parents put the needs of children ahead of their own. It especially eats at us when our kids fall ill, get a boo-boo on the playground, or even when a pesky canker sore makes itself known.
What is a Canker Sore in the Mouth & What Causes them?
So what is a canker sore? Canker sores appear as small white swellings or sores surrounded by an area of redness. Canker sores are found on the gum line, under the tongue, on the cheeks and lips. Canker sores are not contagious. They do seem to recur, and come about to be minor or small, sometimes large, and now and again can be multiples usually clustered together. Canker sores can be painful and make eating or drinking unbearable. It is unclear what actually causes canker sores although most medical experts agree that it is either bacterial or viral involving the immune system. It is also presumed factors such as stress, vitamin or iron deficiency, trauma, allergies and heredity might contribute. Children and teenagers seem more susceptible than adults.
Difference Between Canker Sore & Cold Sore
Sometimes people confuse canker sore with cold sores. Canker sores only appear in the mouth, where cold sores generally emerge on the lips, or outside the mouth. Cold sores are contagious, and painful coming from the herpes virus.
How to Treat Canker Sores in Children
Canker sores generally heal within seven-ten days, however recurrent outbreaks are common. Typically canker sores do not need prescription medication and an over the counter pain reliever is recommended if it gets too painful. If a canker sore lasts longer than two weeks and it has become too painful for your child to eat or drink, contact a doctor.
Smile Reef has prepared a few tips to help your child prevent reoccurring canker sores and to help canker sores be less painful;
– Avoid eating abrasive, salt foods too often. Snacks like chips and nuts can irritate the gums and delicate mouth tissues. Especially if a canker sore is present, it may be a good idea to skip those salty treats.
– Avoid foods that your child may have even minor allergies to. Spicy, salty and acidic foods should be avoided during a canker sore breakout as these foods can contribute to irritation and lead to pain.
– Have your child brush their teeth and use mouthwash with products that do not contain SLS (sodium lauryl sulfate).
– If your child seems to get canker sores on a regular bases, try switching to a toothbrush with softer bristles and avoid scrubbing too hard.
Professional Pediatric Dentistry in Las Vegas Nevada
Although canker sores can be a pain, both figuratively and literally, our children will learn how to deal with them, and what to avoid until those tiny nuisances go away. Smile Reef Pediatric Dentistry has the expertise to get your child to a healthy mouth and dazzling smile. If you have any questions or concerns about canker sores, we can consult with you on your child’s next visit.
