Mouth sores are typically characterized by inflammation in the mouth that negatively affects a person’s capability of eating, talking and even sleeping properly. This condition can affect just about any part of the mouth, which includes the tongue, palate, lips as well as the inside of cheeks. Usually, the condition has two forms. The first type is the canker sore that is characterized by yellow ulcers with red-colored outer rings, typically on the tongue and cheeks. Cold sores or fluid-filled sores are the second type affecting the lips and their neighboring areas.

In most cases, mouth sores disappear in around two weeks, if they aren’t treated. If the dentist or doctor identifies the causes, proper treatment is given to address this cause. However, if the cause is unidentifiable, the treatment aims at relieving symptoms only.

The most common ways of avoiding pain associated with mouth sores is avoiding the intake of hot or citric drinks as well as salty or spicy foods. Pain relievers can help offer relief from pain while gargling with cool water helps in easing pain associated with a mouth burn.

If a patient is suffering from canker sores, the main goal of treatment would be relieving discomfort while guarding the patient against infectious diseases. In addition to drinking more water, the patient should do salt water rinses. Following dental care practices is also important. Applying topical anesthetic to the ulcers is recommended as well. Some patients prefer applying a solution of hydrogen peroxide and water to the affected areas. Application of topical corticosteroid preparations helps in protecting a sore inside the lip as well as on the gums. In more serious cases, the doctor prescribes certain anti-inflammatory pastes, mouthwashes as well as special gels. If a patient gets these sores frequently, he/she could be experiencing vitamin B12 or folate deficiencies

Anti-inflammatory drugs like corticosteroids are highly effective in treating canker sores, as they tend to decrease the intensity of pain and inflammation. They are very useful in offering relief from cold sores as well, particularly when the sore has been around for at least three days. According to oral health experts, everybody isn’t eligible to consume some kinds of anti-inflammatory medications. For instance, if a diabetic is prescribed a drug like prednisone, his/her blood sugar would increase. Therefore, letting the doctor or health expert know about the patient’s medical history is also important before a new drug is taken.

While there is no particular cure for cold sores, treatment for this condition generally involves using protective ointment like antiviral gels to coat the lesions. Application of ice may also help. In some cases, doctors prescribe antiviral drugs, which may help in shortening the time that such blisters are in the mouth. Lastly, it should be noted that every sore isn’t harmless. Therefore, the doctor should be consulted immediately if the condition doesn’t get better in two weeks.