Canker Sore Treatment in Circleville, OH

Dr Megan Kottman answering questions from a patient

Compassionate and Effective Canker Sore Treatment in Circleville, OH, and Surrounding Areas

Premier Dental of Circleville – Your Partner in Relief and Healing

At Premier Dental of Circleville, we understand how disruptive and uncomfortable canker sores can be. These small but painful ulcers affect the soft tissues inside your mouth and can make eating, speaking, and even smiling a challenge. Our compassionate and experienced dental team is here to help you find lasting relief through personalized care and proven treatments.

What Are Canker Sores?

Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, are shallow lesions on the mouth's soft tissues. Unlike cold sores, canker sores are not contagious and do not occur on the outer lips. Instead, they typically develop on the tongue, inner cheeks, lips, or floor of the mouth. These ulcers are usually round or oval with a white or yellow center surrounded by a red border.

Common Triggers and Causes

While the exact cause is still unknown, there are several factors that may contribute to their development. Many people experience outbreaks triggered by:

• Minor mouth injuries (from dental work, accidental bites, or rough brushing)

• Stress or hormonal changes

• Food sensitivities (such as acidic or spicy foods)

• Vitamin deficiencies (especially B12, zinc, folate, or iron)

• Underlying health conditions or immune responses

Some individuals are more prone to frequent canker sores, particularly during times of illness or stress, when the immune system is already under strain.

Types of Canker Sores

There are three primary types and can vary in size, severity, and duration:

• Minor aphthous ulcers: Small and usually heal within 7 to 10 days

• Major aphthous ulcers: Larger, deeper sores that may last several weeks and cause significant discomfort

• Herpetiform ulcers: Small, clustered sores that resemble cold sores but occur inside the mouth and are not caused by the herpes virus

Your dentist can easily differentiate between canker sores and other types of oral lesions based on appearance and location.

Home Remedies and What to Avoid

For mild discomfort, simple home remedies may offer temporary relief. Holding an ice cube against the sore can numb the area and reduce inflammation. A warm saltwater rinse several times daily is another effective method to clean the ulcer and promote healing. However, avoiding over-the-counter numbing agents like Orajel or Anbesol is important, which can actually slow the healing process.

How Premier Dental of Circleville Can Help

Our expert dental team at Premier Dental of Circleville is ready to help when home remedies aren't enough. We offer targeted treatments including:

• Laser therapy to reduce pain and accelerate healing

• Prescription-strength steroid ointments to control inflammation

• Dietary recommendations to minimize irritation during healing

We take time to assess your symptoms and create a personalized treatment plan that relieves current discomfort and helps prevent future outbreaks.

Schedule Your Appointment Today!

If you have persistent or painful canker sores, don’t suffer in silence. The caring team at Premier Dental of Circleville is here to support your oral health with expert guidance and effective treatment options. Contact us today to schedule your visit and take the first step toward lasting relief and a healthier smile.

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