What is the Difference Between Canker Sore and a Mouth Ulcer?

When you’re dealing with painful mouth sores, it’s essential to identify the type of sore to choose the best treatment. Canker sores and mouth ulcers are often confused, but they have different causes and treatments.

Being aware of the differences between canker sores and mouth ulcers can help you know when to seek out practical tips from a dental professional, as they can help you manage them effectively.

What is a Canker Sore?

A canker sore is a small, shallow sore that develops inside the mouth, often on the inside of your lips, cheeks, or at the base of your gums. These sores are normally white or gray with a red halo around them. Canker sores are not contagious, meaning you can’t spread them from someone else.

What is a Mouth Ulcer?

Mouth ulcers are similar to canker sores but can have different causes. They can occur anywhere in the mouth and might be caused by a variety of factors, including stress, nutritional deficiencies, or certain medical conditions. Unlike canker sores, some mouth ulcers can be a sign of a more severe condition.

What Causes Canker Sores and Mouth Ulcers?

Canker Sores

• Stress or Hormonal Changes: Stress or hormonal shifts can upset your body and lead to canker sores.
• Nutritional Deficiencies: Lack of essential nutrients, like vitamin B12 or iron, can cause canker sores.
• Food Sensitivities: Acidic or spicy foods, like citrus fruits and chocolate, might trigger canker sores.
• Genetics: If canker sores run in your family, you might be more likely to have them.

Mouth Ulcers

• Infections: Viral or bacterial infections can lead to mouth ulcers.
• Mouth Injury: Biting the inside of your mouth or using ill-fitting dentures can cause ulcers.
• Medical Conditions: Conditions like Crohn’s disease (a chronic inflammatory bowel disease) or Behçet’s disease (a rare autoimmune disorder) can cause recurring ulcers.

Effectively Treating Canker Sores and Mouth Ulcers

1. Consult a Dentist: If you’re unsure whether you have a canker sore or a mouth ulcer, or if the sore is not improving, it’s worth visiting a dentist. Our experienced dentist in NW Calgary can help diagnose the issue and recommend appropriate treatments.
2. Consider Prescription Medications: For severe cases, a dentist may prescribe medications or suggest specific treatments tailored to your condition.
3. Follow Good Oral Care Practices: Regular brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash can help prevent the recurrence of mouth sores.
4. Use Protective Pastes: Applying protective pastes can shield the sore from irritation and allow it to heal faster.

How Can I Prevent Canker Sores and Mouth Ulcers?

Canker sores and mouth ulcers can be painful, but you can reduce their risk with these simple steps:

Canker Sores

1. Manage Stress: Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing or yoga. Keeping stress in check can help prevent canker sores.
2. Eat a Balanced Diet: Make sure you get enough vitamins and minerals, like B12, folic acid, and iron. Eating a variety of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help keep your body and mouth healthy.
3. Avoid Trigger Foods: Steer clear of foods that irritate your mouth, such as citrus fruits (oranges, lemons) and spicy dishes. If you notice certain foods cause sores, try to avoid them.
4. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid irritating your mouth.

Mouth Ulcers

1. Avoid Oral Injuries: Be careful while eating and using dental appliances. Avoid biting the inside of your mouth or using dentures that don’t fit well.
2. Treat Infections Promptly: If you have an infection, get it treated quickly to prevent ulcers. Follow your dentist’s advice for managing infections.
3. Manage Chronic Conditions: If you have conditions like Crohn’s disease, work with your healthcare provider to keep symptoms under control.
4. Check Medication Side Effects: If you start a new medication and notice mouth ulcers, talk to your doctor. They might adjust your treatment or suggest alternatives.

Following these tips can help prevent canker sores and mouth ulcers. If issues persist, consult a healthcare professional for sore canker treatment.

Is It Worth Visiting a Dentist?

If you have a mouth ulcer that doesn’t heal within a few weeks or causes significant pain, it’s important to visit a dentist near you. They can evaluate the ulcer and determine if it’s a sign of a more serious condition.

For severe pain, persistent sores, or symptoms suggesting a serious underlying issue, you may need to consult an emergency dentist near you for immediate care.

Conclusion

Understanding canker sores versus mouth ulcers helps manage your oral health. With the right sore canker treatment and preventive measures, you can address them better. For persistent or severe cases, seeking professional help is crucial.

At Valley Ridge Dental Centre, we’re here to help you with any concerns about your oral health. If you need guidance or treatment for mouth sores or ulcers, don’t hesitate to contact our dentist in NW Calgary. We’re committed to providing personalized care to ensure your comfort and well-being.