Mouth Sores

Canker sores are small ulcers that appear in the inside of the mouth.  They are usually white or grayish in the middle and then they are bordered in red.  You might have one sore or multiple sores at a time.  Although experts aren't sure what causes canker sores -- it could be immune system problems, bacteria, or viruses, they do think that stress, as well as fatigue and allergies, can increase the risk of getting them. The good news is canker sores are not contagious.

There are over-the counter topical anesthetics that work well for the irritation of canker sores.  The product Kemp Orthodontics recommends is Zilactin ®.  Remember to avoid spicy, hot foods or food that has a high acid content because they will irritate and prolong the healing process for canker sores.

Cold sores often appear on or around the mouth area.  They are also called fever blisters because they are filled with fluid.  Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus and are contagious.

An outbreak of cold sores can be triggered by emotional upset, fever, excess exposure to the sun and skin abrasion. Most of the time fever blisters heal on their own in a week.   Treatment is available, including over-the-counter remedies as mentioned above.  In severe cases Dr. Kemp may prescribe an antiviral drug.

If you suffer from cold sores, please ask Dr. Kemp for advice.  The key to healing cold sores is to start treatment as soon as the cold sore begins to form.