We have all experienced the nuisance of troublesome canker sores. Canker sores are small lesions that develop inside the mouth or at the base of the gums that are not contagious. They differ from cold sores because they do not appear on the lips, but they can interfere with comfortable eating and speaking. At your Rochester dentists’ office, Dr. Gilly Calcagno and Dr. Kara Heimer provide a wide range of cosmetic and family dentistry services, and they recommend that you visit their office if you possess a severe canker sore that won’t go away. Read on to learn what causes these pesky canker sores.
Causes of Canker Sores
The scientific community cannot definitively conclude that one factor or factors cause canker sores, but here are four of the more common causes of canker sores.
- Pressure or trauma to the mouth can cause canker sores. You may not realize it, but even overly rigorous brushing can lead to canker sores. If braces or dentures do not fit correctly and press against the gums or cheeks, they can lead to a canker sore. Strong mouthwashes or oral products sometimes irritate the mouth and can cause a canker sore as well. If this is the case, Dr. Calcagno and Dr. Heimer are happy to recommend milder oral products.
- Lacking sufficient levels of folic acid, iron, or zinc can cause canker sores. It is unclear if calcium deficiency causes canker sores, but a deficiency in calcium can certainly exacerbate canker sores.
- If an area of your mouth is already irritated or injured, eating certain fruits such as pineapples, oranges, or lemons can aggravate those areas because of their acidity and sometimes lead to a canker sore. You should also limit strawberries, apples, and tomatoes if you possess a canker sore.
- People who possess weak immune systems may be more susceptible to developing canker sores. This may be due to their immune system’s inability to promptly mend itself or block illnesses.
When to Visit the Doctor
Call our office if a high fever accompanies a canker sore, if you experience recurring sores, if you have an especially painful sore, or if a canker sore doesn’t go away in three weeks.
About Our Doctors
The doctors and team at Calcagno Family and Cosmetic Dentistry respond to patients’ dental concerns with compassion and dedication. To schedule a consultation, please call (507) 218-8936. Dr. Calcagno and Dr. Heimer welcome and treat patients from Rochester, Red Wing, St. Charles, Winona, Farmington, Aust
