Aphthous ulcers, also known as canker sores, are a common oral health problem. They appear as round, yellowish or whitish ulcers on the mouth’s lips, cheeks, tongue, and floor. They are often painful and can be single or multiple. Although they are not dangerous and do not cause a fever, they can irritate and make you uncomfortable. If your child develops aphthous ulcers, there is no need to worry – is it possible that you can get one after visiting a dentist?
Canker sores are a common problem that can occur after dental treatment. They are small, painful ulcers that can make it difficult to eat or speak. While there is no cure for canker sores, there are steps that you can take to help reduce their severity and shorten the duration of the outbreak.
If you experience canker sores after dental treatment, here are a few things that you can do to help relieve the pain and speed healing:
- Apply ice or a cold pack to the sore for 10-15 minutes daily. This will help reduce inflammation and pain.
- Take over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen to help relieve pain.
- Rinse your mouth with salt water several times a day to help keep the area clean and help promote healing.
- Avoid eating acidic or spicy foods, as these can aggravate the sore and prolong the healing process.
- If necessary, you may also want to consider taking an over-the-counter oral steroid medication to help reduce inflammation and speed healing.
If you experience canker sores after dental treatment, there are a few things that you can do to help reduce their severity and shorten the duration of the outbreak. Following these tips can help keep your mouth healthy and pain-free.
Is it common to get a canker sore after dental work?
Canker sores are a common problem that can occur after dental treatment. They are small, painful ulcers that can make it difficult to eat or speak. While there is no cure for canker sores, there are steps that you can take to help reduce their severity and shorten the duration of the outbreak.
Which dental work causes mouth sores?
Any dental work can potentially cause canker sores.
Common triggers include:
- braces
- tooth extractions
- dentures
- dental cleaning
- root canal
- dental injection (novocaine shot)
- wisdom tooth removal
If you have a canker sore, you may notice a tingling or burning sensation a day or two before the sore appears. The sore is usually round or oval and white or yellow with a red border. Canker sores typically heal within two to three weeks without treatment. However, they can be painful and make it difficult to eat or drink.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I get canker sores after dental work?
Canker sores after dental visits are common and caused by tissue trauma from instruments, injections, or keeping your mouth open for extended periods. Stress from dental anxiety can also trigger outbreaks. These sores typically heal within 7-10 days without treatment.
How can I prevent canker sores after the dentist?
Ask your dentist to use a lip balm or protective wax during procedures. Rinse with warm salt water after your appointment. Taking lysine supplements before and after dental visits may also help prevent outbreaks in people prone to canker sores.
Types of Canker Sores After Dental Work
Not all canker sores are created equal. After dental procedures, you may experience different types:
- Minor aphthous ulcers: The most common type (80% of cases). Small, oval-shaped sores less than 10mm in diameter. These heal within 7-14 days without scarring.
- Major aphthous ulcers: Larger than 10mm, deeper, and more painful. These can take 2-6 weeks to heal and may leave scars. More likely after invasive procedures like extractions or root canals.
- Herpetiform ulcers: Clusters of tiny (1-3mm) sores that can merge into larger, irregular ulcers. Despite the name, these are NOT caused by the herpes virus. They typically heal within 7-10 days.
Best Treatments for Post-Dental Canker Sores
While most canker sores heal on their own, you can speed recovery and reduce pain with these treatments:
Over-the-Counter Options
- Orajel or Anbesol: Topical benzocaine provides immediate pain relief. Apply directly to the sore before meals.
- Kank-A: Creates a protective film over the sore. Apply after rinsing with salt water.
- Hydrogen peroxide rinse: Mix equal parts 3% hydrogen peroxide and water. Swish for 30 seconds, then spit. Helps clean the sore and promote healing.
- Milk of magnesia: Dab directly on the sore 3-4 times daily. Acts as a coating agent and acid neutralizer.
Home Remedies
- Salt water rinse: Dissolve 1 teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water. Rinse 3-4 times daily. This is the most time-tested remedy for oral sores.
- Honey: Apply raw honey directly to the sore. Studies show honey has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can speed healing by up to 35%.
- Coconut oil: Swish 1 tablespoon of coconut oil in your mouth for 5-10 minutes (oil pulling). Lauric acid in coconut oil has antimicrobial properties.
- Ice chips: Hold ice against the sore for pain relief and to reduce inflammation.
When to Call Your Dentist
While most post-dental canker sores are harmless, contact your dentist if you experience:
- Sores that last longer than 3 weeks
- Unusually large sores (bigger than a pencil eraser)
- Sores spreading to your lips (could indicate a different condition)
- Severe pain that doesn’t respond to OTC treatments
- High fever accompanying the sores
- Difficulty swallowing or drinking fluids
Your dentist may prescribe a corticosteroid rinse (like dexamethasone), a prescription-strength topical gel (like Aphthasol), or in severe cases, a course of oral steroids to manage recurring outbreaks.
I have been working as a dentist for the past 29 years. I have experience in all aspects of dentistry, including preventative care, fillings, extractions, crowns, bridges, and implants. I am also experienced in oral surgery and root canals. I am passionate about providing quality dental care to my patients and take pride in my work. I am a member of the American Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry.I understand that going to the dentist can be a daunting experience for some people, so I strive to make my patients feel comfortable and relaxed while in my care. I believe everyone deserves to have a healthy and beautiful smile, which is why I offer affordable dental care to all my patients.If you require a dentist in the Los Angeles area, I encourage you to schedule an appointment with me. I look forward to meeting you and helping you achieve your dental health goals. Thank you for considering me as your dentist.Sincerely,Dr. Sam F. Lowe
