Canker sores are small superficial ulcers that most often form on the mucous membranes inside the mouth: on the inside of the cheeks, tongue, inside of the lips, palate or gums. Mouth ulcers can also appear on the genitals, but rarely. When canker sores occur repeatedly, it is called aphthous stomatitis. The word stomatitis means that there is an inflammation of the mucous membranes inside the mouth. If you suffer from this problem, your local Family Dentistry in Greenville WI may be able to help.
Mouth sores are common: about 17% of the population is affected at some point. Often, the first outbreak of canker sores appears during childhood. Then the symptoms return at certain times, then disappear permanently during the thirties. This issue can manifest itself in various ways.
1. Minor form: January to May, oval ulcers (2 mm to 1 cm diameter) heal naturally in 7 to 14 days without scarring. Canker sores occur of this form occur in 80% of cases.
2. Major form: larger ulcers (more than 1 cm in diameter), which are irregularly-shaped, can take six weeks to heal and often leave scars.
3. Herpetiformis form: 10 to 100 tiny ulcers (less than 3 mm in diameter) with irregular contours come together slowly, then form a giant ulcer area, which lasts 1 to 2 weeks without scarring.
Symptoms of mouth ulcers
An outbreak of canker sores is often preceded by a sensation of tingling in the affected area.
1. One or more small ulcers in the mouth. The center is whitish, and their outline is red.
2. Canker sores cause intense pain similar to a feeling of burning. Pain is accentuated when talking or when eating, especially during the first few days.
Ulcers do not leave scars.
People at risk
1. Women.
2. Those who have a parent or have had canker sores in the past.
Most people do not seek medical attention in case of canker sores because they heal by themselves. However, for people who have frequent recurrences of ulcers (a minority), a medical examination and a blood test is required by your Family Dentistry in Greenville WI.
This will search for another disease that could cause canker sores, like Crohn’s disease, Behcet disease etc.). Moreover, a biopsy must be performed in some cases. Contact Barnes and Associates Dentistry SC Appleton WI for more information.
