Sore mouth is a common condition. The reasons for their formation are different - from inadequate oral hygiene, through erupting teeth, to mechanical damage. They usually disappear on their own, but before this happens, they can effectively make everyday life difficult. What do we know about canker sores?
We invited Poradnikzdrowie.pl users to take part in the survey and answer questions about oral hygiene and problems with mouth ulcers. Do we really know how to recognize canker sores, how to prevent them and how to treat them when they appear?
84 percent people in the survey described the mouth ulcers as painful, round or oval sores in the mouth. For 13 percent canker sores are called thrush, in turn 3 percent. perceives aphthae as a type of bacteria.
In the face of these statistics, it is worth emphasizing that canker sores - i.e. erosive or ulcerative lesions in the mouth - should not be confused with white or white-red eruptions, appearing as a result of a fungal infection, commonly referred to as thrush. Treatment of thrush in generally he althy people requires antifungal therapy as well as the implementation of proper oral hygiene and diet1) .
In turn, aphtha treatment should begin with bringing the oral cavity to a proper hygienic condition and removing any traumatic and irritating factors. It is also worth using topical preparations that isolate aphtha from irritants, relieve pain and support the natural healing process (eg Anaftin). Most agree with this statement, as much as 99 percent. poll participants.
At the same time, the vast majority of respondents (97%) indicated mechanical damage, weakened immunity and inadequate oral hygiene as possible causes of mouth ulcers. Only 2 percent. of respondents indicated the consumption of citrus juices as the cause of the symptoms, and 1% - eating cold meals and drinks.
It should be remembered, however, that most erosive or ulcerative lesions in the oral cavity (except for mechanical trauma) are systemic in origin and should be established.Therefore, a medical examination should be considered an essential element of proper therapy.
THE EXPERT'S OPINIONIn 80% of cases, recurring changes are observedsmall canker sores that heal within 1-2 weeks. About 10% of patients have large ulcers that persist for several weeks, the so-called Sutton's aphthas. Sometimes the eruptions cover the entire area of the oral mucosa and appear as herpes-like aphthae.
In the most severe cases, painful changes can recur several times a month for many years. Their formation can be caused by disorders of the immune system, iron and vitamin B12 deficiencies, and in the youngest - parasitic diseases. Similar eruptions of the oral mucosa can be a symptom of systemic diseases, including allergies, Behçet syndrome, Addison-Biermer anemia, and even inflammatory bowel disease or celiac disease. In the diagnosis of recurrent aphthae, it is important to exclude the underlying disease and perform tests, including blood counts, iron and vitamin B12 levels.
When choosing a preparation for topical application, the type and location of the lesions should be taken into account. For example, the gel will work for single and easily accessible lesions, but in the case of hard-to-reach places in the mouth (e.g. on the soft palate or the back wall of the pharynx), a spray may be a better choice. A mouthwash can be selected for multiple and diffuse lesions (e.g., in orthodontic patients). The ability of the preparation to remain on the diseased tissue, i.e. its adhesive properties, is also important. The presence of saliva and tongue movements significantly reduce the effectiveness and duration of action of topical preparations. Those containing polyvinylpyridone (PVP) polymer or hyaluronic acid will last longer, as they form a bioadhesive layer on the irritated gum.
Joanna Rasławska-Socha, MD, PhD
97 percent people taking part in our survey are aware that the problem of aphthae affects both adults and children. When choosing a preparation for aphthas and damage to the oral mucosa in a child, check whether it is intended for the youngest (many preparations available on the market are not registered for use in children). It is also worth choosing the one that has a good, child-acceptable taste and is easy to apply.
The same number of respondents (97% of the study participants) are also aware of the fact that inadequate oral hygiene can lead to, inter alia, for aphthous stomatitis.
How to take care of oral hygiene? There is no doubt for most of the study participants - brushing once a day, avoiding sweets, and chewing gum after a meal are not enough. You should brush your teeth after each meal (necessarily in the morning and evening),thread and use special rinsing liquids - thinks 98 percent.
What if the canker sores already appear? Anaftin is recommended as it quickly protects against pain by creating a bioadhesive protective layer on exposed nerve endings. It comes in 3 forms: gel, spray and mouthwash. It can be used by both adults and children.