Mouth sores can be unpleasant and unsightly. Fortunately they can be prevented. Learn best practices to reduce the development of common types of mouth sores.
Common Types of Mouth Sores
You may be wondering what our Tampa dentist means when we say mouth sores. Here are a few common examples:
- Cold sore – oral sore often accompanied by flu-like symptoms
- Canker sore – painful sore that appears on the inside of the mouth
- Hand, foot, and mouth disease – most frequently affects children under the age of 5
- Recurring sores – recurring mouth sores may suggest a vitamin deficiency
Ways to Prevent Mouth Sores From Developing
While most mouth sores do go away on their own after a few days, they can be painful or unpleasant. They can also negatively impact your appearance; thus, it’s best to do what you can to prevent them from developing in the first place.
Avoid spicy foods and drinks
For some people, eating spicy foods or beverages can trigger an outbreak of cold sores. If you know that you have experienced cold sores in the past, lowering the spice level of foods you ingest can prevent another outbreak.
Avoid very hot or very acidic foods
If you currently have a mouth sore, you can lower the amount of pain and discomfort you feel by watching what you eat and drink. Stay away from foods that are very hot, very cold, or very acidic as these may make the area more uncomfortable.
Practice good dental hygiene
Practicing good dental hygiene is the best way to prevent oral problems including mouth sores. If you are prone to mouth sores, keep a soft toothbrush on hand so you don’t accidentally aggravate the sore while brushing your teeth. Always brush and floss twice daily to reduce bacteria in the mouth.
Decrease stress
Cold sores are aggravated by stress, among other factors. By managing your stress, you can prevent new outbreaks. You’ll also feel a lot better.
Eat a balanced diet
Proper diet can prevent several types of mouth sores, including those caused by vitamin deficiencies. Try to get most of your nutrients from whole foods, like fruits and veggies, while avoiding processed foods and foods that are high in added sugars.
For some people, food irritants can cause oral sores. Keep a diary what you eat and notice when a sore is triggered. By reducing or eliminating certain foods that are aggravating you can stay healthy.
Limit or avoid alcohol and tobacco
Alcohol and tobacco products harm your overall health and aggravate oral tissue. By quitting smoking or other tobacco products and reducing or avoiding alcohol altogether, you can greatly protect your overall health and lower the likelihood of mouth sores.
Talk with your dentist
At Weninger Dentistry, we are here for any oral health concerns you have, including mouth sores. Make an appointment to get a lesion checked out or ask us about anything else by calling 813-501-6864 today.