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Canker Sore
A canker sore is an open sore in the mouth, which appears as a painful white or yellow ulcer surrounded by a bright red area. They are a common form of a mouth ulcer that is benign (not harmful). Canker sores may occur at any age, but usually appear between ages 10 and 40. Most are found on the inner surface of the cheeks and lips, tongue, soft roof of the mouth, and at the base of the gums.
A canker sore usually begins with a tingling or burning sensation, followed by a red spot or bump that swells. Pain will usually decrease by days 7 to 10, with complete healing in 1 to 3 weeks. Particularly large ulcers (one that is greater than 1cm across) often take longer to heal. Occasionally, a severe occurrence may be accompanied by nonspecific symptoms of illness, such as fever or fatigue.
Most often, canker sores occur with viral infections. Because of this, canker sores often come back in the future. Genetics may play a role in canker sore development as there may be an inherited tendency to develop them. They can also be triggered by emotional stress, dietary deficiencies, menstrual periods, food allergies, or mouth injuries and aggressive tooth cleaning.
Treatment is usually not necessary, as in most cases, the canker sores go away by themselves. Severe mouth ulcers may require evaluation and treatment. In these cases, topical or oral tetracycline may be given, with instructions to hold it in the mouth for several minutes before swallowing. Topical or oral corticosteroids are rarely used, but they may help to reduce swelling.
Central Drugs recommends the following formulations for Canker Sores:
Dexamethasone 0.1%/ Erythromycin 3% Dental Gel
Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate 0.132% Dental Paste
Dexamethasone/ Neomycin Sulfate/ Polymyxin B Sulfate Dental Suspension
Tetracycline Suspension
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