Mouth sores can be painful and uncomfortable, making it difficult to eat, drink, or even speak.
Whether they appear as canker sores, cold sores, or ulcers, these small but irritating lesions can affect anyone.
Understanding the causes, treatments, and prevention methods can help you manage and prevent mouth sores effectively.
Common Causes of Mouth Sores
Mouth sores can develop due to various reasons, including:
✅ Injury or Irritation – Biting your cheek, rough foods, or poorly fitting dentures
✅ Stress and Hormonal Changes – Can trigger canker sores in some people
✅ Viral Infections – Cold sores (fever blisters) caused by the herpes simplex virus
✅ Nutritional Deficiencies – Lack of vitamin B12, iron, or folic acid
✅ Allergic Reactions – Certain foods, toothpaste, or medications
✅ Underlying Health Conditions – Autoimmune diseases, diabetes, or gastrointestinal disorders
Types of Mouth Sores
- Canker Sores (Aphthous Ulcers): Small, painful, non-contagious ulcers inside the mouth
- Cold Sores (Fever Blisters): Caused by the herpes virus, often appearing around the lips
- Oral Thrush: White patches caused by a yeast infection in the mouth
- Leukoplakia: White patches linked to irritation or smoking, needing medical evaluation
Best Treatments for Mouth Sores in Pretoria
At Every Smile Dentistry in Pretoria, we provide expert care for mouth sores. Common treatments include:
1. Over-the-Counter Remedies
💊 Antiseptic mouthwashes (chlorhexidine) to reduce infection
💊 Topical gels and ointments (benzocaine, corticosteroids) for pain relief
💊 Cold sore creams (acyclovir) to speed up healing
2. Prescription Medications
🔹 Antiviral medications for severe cold sores
🔹 Steroid mouth rinses to treat painful ulcers
🔹 Antifungal treatments for oral thrush
3. Home Remedies for Soothing Relief
✅ Rinse with warm saltwater to promote healing
✅ Apply honey or aloe vera for natural relief
✅ Use a baking soda paste to neutralize acidity and reduce pain
How to Prevent Mouth Sores
✔ Maintain good oral hygiene – Brush and floss daily
✔ Avoid acidic or spicy foods – They can trigger irritation
✔ Manage stress levels – Practice relaxation techniques
✔ Stay hydrated – Drink plenty of water to keep your mouth moist
✔ Check for allergies – Identify and avoid triggers like certain foods or toothpaste
Need Expert Care for Mouth Sores in Pretoria?
If you experience frequent or severe mouth sores, visit Every Smile Dentistry in Pretoria for professional evaluation and treatment.