Things to Know About Aphthae and Mouth Wounds
What is aphtha?
Aphthous ulcer is an oval-shaped, white, red, painful ulcer that is usually seen on the cheek mucosa, lip mucosa and tongue.
Why do aphthae and mouth sores occur?
Although the exact cause is not known, the possible underlying factors are;
- poor oral hygiene
- Faulty restorations causing trauma
- Nutritional disorders
- Stress
- Various diseases affecting the immune system (Behçet, etc.)
- Thermal burns due to heat
Does cavities on teeth cause aphtha?
When combined with other underlying systemic causes, caries that create sharp tooth edges, especially large enough to injure the cheek and lip mucosa, dental calculus, as well as faulty incompatible prostheses and fillings can trigger aphtha formation.
Is it necessary to see a doctor when aphthae occur?
Especially in the presence of aphthae that recurs frequently and impairs the quality of daily life, a dentist should be consulted and necessary treatment recommendations should be obtained.
Is there a treatment for aphthae?
The main treatment of aphthae can be by eliminating the underlying cause. Various creams and gels that are effective in relieving pain caused by aphthae can be recommended to patients.
How many days are the aphthae treated?
In general, aphthae heal spontaneously within 1 week to 10 days. Thanks to the creams and gels recommended by the dentist, this period can be spent more painlessly and in a short time. However, considering that large aphthae that do not last for a long time and that recur many times may be a sign of an important disease, patients should be directed to a detailed medical examination.
What should be considered in order to avoid aphthae?
- If there is a vitamin or mineral deficiency, it should be supported under the control of a doctor.
- It is necessary to avoid injuries that irritate the oral mucosa.
- Particular attention should be paid to choosing toothpastes that do not contain sodium lauryl sulfate.
- It should be checked by a dentist at regular intervals and evaluated especially in terms of calculus and bad restorations that cause trauma.
- It is necessary to have good oral hygiene.
Pendik Hospital
Chief Physician Dt. Omer KADIOGLU
