How To Treat Mouth Sores
Treatment is usually not required for minor oral cold sores. They tend to clear on their own in a week or two.
However, large, persistent, or unusually painful mouth ulcers or sores may require medical care. Several treatment options are available, such as the options below.5
If you are unsure how to treat an oral lesion, speak with your health care provider for a diagnosis. They can provide medical advice.
Mouth Rinses
If you have several oral lesions, your doctor may prescribe a mouth rinse or wash containing the steroid dexamethasone to reduce pain and inflammation. Or, it may contain lidocaine to lessen pain.
Topical Products
Over-the-counter and prescription items may help reduce pain and speed healing if applied to individual mouth sores as soon as they appear.
These topical products include:
Some topical products contain active ingredients including:
- Benzocaine
- Fluocinonide
- Hydrogen peroxide
There are many topical products for oral lesions, including those without active ingredients. Contact your doctor, dentist, or health care provider for advice and more information on which may work best for you.
Oral Medications
Oral medications may be used when oral lesions are severe or do not heal from topical products.
Oral medications may include:
- Medications not intended specifically for mouth or cold sore treatment, including the intestinal ulcer treatment sucralfate used as a coating agent and colchicine, which is typically used to treat gout.
In this article
Oral Herpes In Young Children
Cold sores are blisters around the mouth and nose, caused by the herpes simplex virus . Children can get HSV through contact with someone who has a cold sore. The most infectious time is thought to be in the first few days when the cold sore blister is forming. Sometimes, people can pass the virus to others when they have no symptoms. The virus may also be spread via saliva.
What Are The Symptoms Of Mouth Sores
Canker sores are the most common type of mouth sore. They are usually white with red borders. Other types of mouth sores can be white, red, or yellow. Your child may have a single sore or more than one at the same time. Mouth sore symptoms can include:
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NOTE: If your child has a sore outside the mouth, its likely a cold sore. Cold sores can be spread through direct contact. They may require different treatment from mouth sores. Ask your childs healthcare provider for more information about cold sores if you think your child has one.
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When Should I See A Doctor For Canker Sores In My Child
You should see a doctor or dentist for canker sores if these sores are severe or if your child gets them often. You should also see a doctor or dentist if your childs canker sores arent going away or improving, even after a couple or a few weeks of treatment. They might recommend a different form of treatment, such as topical medicine.
If your child has canker sores and needs treatment, make an appointment today with Park View Pediatric Dentistry. Our entire staff will make you and your child feel welcome and comfortable in our child-friendly office.
How Do Injuries Cause Mouth Sores
Injuries to the mouth are a common result of toddler activities. They may have bitten their tongue or inside of the cheek or brushed too enthusiastically as they begin to learn good oral care habits. Hot foods can be another cause if your toddler isnt patient enough to let their favorite meal cool. Most toddler mouth sores caused by injuries and burns appear red in the beginning and turn white when healing, so forgotten wounds may look similar to a canker sore.
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Chalky Teeth In Young Children
About one in six children have chalky teeth . This can look like creamy-brown or very white spots , particularly on the molars .
Teeth can become chalky if the enamel doesnt harden properly when the tooth is forming in the developing foetus. Because these teeth are weaker, they have a much higher risk of tooth decay.
Chalky teeth can sometimes be confused with tooth decay. If you notice anything unusual about your childs teeth, always see your dentist or other oral health professional as soon as possible.
Can I Use A Home
There have been reports in the mediaabout the risk of ReyesSyndrome in children under 16 who have used Bonjelagel. Bonjela contains an ingredient called salicylate salts which behavein the same way as aspirin. This gel is very effective at treating mouthulcers in adults but should only be used by children aged 16 and above.
However, Bonjela Teething Gel does not contain salicylate salts andis safe for use in children aged two months upwards.
The Medicines and Healthcare productsRegulatory Agency has issued a precautionary message about this.They recommend that children under 16 should not take aspirin or anyaspirin based product.
If you are unsure or worried by anyof this then speak to your dentist, GP or pharmacist.
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Mouth Ulcers And Children : Mouth Ulcer Guide
It isnt only adults that developmouth ulcers. Children and teenagers are also affected and experiencemouth ulcers for much the same reasons.
In fact, you are most likely to developa mouth ulcer between the ages of 10 and 40. So, they affect young peoplerather than older people but the likelihood of them occurring decreaseswith age.If you are a parent of a child who has developed a mouth ulcer thenyou may be wondering how to prevent this from happening. Unfortunately,this cannot be prevented but there are a few things you can do to stopthem from getting worse.
Why Do Kids Get Cold Sores
Cold sores are a form of herpes simplex virus type 1, a contagious virus passed through contact. Adult cold sores are the cause of herpes simplex infections in young children. So, hard as it may be to avoid cuddling your tot, be aware that if you think you have the virus, it’s best to refrain from that goodnight kiss when a sore is present. Likewise, speak to your doctor about breastfeeding if you think you’ve had an outbreak.
According to Seattle Childrens Hospital, the first outbreak of the cold sore virus can be severe and usually occurs between ages 1 to 3. It can cause 10 or more fluid-filled blisters on the gums, tongue, and lips and can also appear on the outer lips or skin around the mouth. Fevers and difficulty swallowing can also occur. Cold sores usually heal in about 2 to 4 weeks. Your child’s pediatrician may recommend an antiviral medicine to hasten a cold sore’s healing.
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How Are Canker Sores Diagnosed
Just because canker sores are fairly common doesn’t mean they should be ignored.
If your child has canker sores that last longer than 2 weeks or can’t eat or drink because of the pain, call your doctor. Also call if the sores appear more than two or three times a year.
Usually, no tests are needed to diagnose canker sores, as doctors can identify them based on medicalhistory and physical exam alone.
If your child gets canker sores a lot or they’re severe, the doctor may want to do tests to look for possible nutritional deficiencies , immune system deficiencies, and food or other allergies.
What Are Some Uncommon Symptoms Of Covid
COVID-19 can also cause symptoms you may not expect, including: 2
Gastrointestinal Symptoms
COVID-19 may lead to nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea alone or along with other COVID-19 symptoms. Gastrointestinal symptoms may develop before fever and respiratory symptoms.
Skin Changes
The most common skin change related to mild to severe COVID-19 includes a flat, red rash covered with small bumps and discolored areas on the fingers and toes, otherwise known as COVID toes. COVID toes are more common in children and young adults. Discoloration or swelling can occur on one or several toes or fingers.
Blisters, rough skin, itchiness, pain, or painful raised bumps can develop. A small amount of pus may develop under the skin. These symptoms can last 10 to 14 days. However, in some reported cases, they persist for months.
It is essential to know that swollen, discolored fingers or toes could also be chilblains. This is an inflammatory skin condition. Chilblains occur in response to repeated exposure to cold air.
Hives is another skin change linked with developing COVID-19.
Confusion
Severe confusion, otherwise known as delirium, may be the primary or only symptom of COVID-19 in older people. This symptom is related to a high risk for poor outcomes, including death.
Eye Problems
Pink eye, otherwise known as conjunctivitis, may be a symptom of COVID-19. The most common eye problems linked to COVID-19 are light sensitivity and sore or itchy eyes.
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Symptoms Of Cold Sores In Children
Symptoms in children may include:
- tingling, burning or itchiness of the skin
- small clusters of blisters that quickly break out inside the mouth, or on the gums or lips
- yellowish ulcers surrounded by a red circle, which develop after the blisters burst
- red, swollen gums that bleed when touched
- fever, feeling unwell, tiredness and irritability.
See your doctor, dentist or other oral health professional if sores do not heal within two weeks.
What Is Hand Foot And Mouth Disease
Hand, foot and mouth disease typically presents as red blisters inside the mouth and on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. It also involves fever and lack of energy. HFMD is transmitted through a virus known as the Coxsackie virus, which occurs most commonly in children. It is passed through bodily fluids, direct contact, or fecal matter, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. HFMD is a minor ailment and should subside within a week. Since cold sores and HFMD are very contagious, you’ll want to make sure you and your child avoid direct contact with anyone who has active ulcers.
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How Can I Help My Child Feel Better
To help make canker sores less painful and keep them from coming back, encourage your child to:
- avoid eating abrasive foods, such as potato chips and nuts, which can irritate gums and other delicate mouth tissues
- try brushing and rinsing with toothpastes and mouthwashes that don’t contain SLS
- use only soft-bristle toothbrushes and be careful not to brush too hard
- avoid any foods he or she is allergic to
- avoid spicy, salty, and acidic foods , which can irritate tender mouth sores
Home Remedies For Mouth Ulcers In Children
If the age of your child is more than one year, honey can be one of the home remedies for mouth ulcers in children. You can apply it to the affected area directly a few times. Honey has great anti-microbial properties, which will heal the sores quickly.
A staple in most households, turmeric can be used to treat mouth ulcers in children. Its anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and antibacterial properties heal all sorts of wounds and cuts. To make the application easier, mix it with honey.
Coconut is another item that is very handy in Indian homes as can be used as one of the home remedies for mouth ulcers in children. You can either give your child coconut water to drink or make him gargle with coconut milk. If you dont have these at home, you can simply apply virgin coconut oil on the sores.
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What Causes Canker Sores
No one knows exactly what causes canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers. Many factors are thought to put a person at risk for them. Diet may play a part. People whose diets are low in folic acid, vitamin B12, and iron seem to develop canker sores more often, as do people with food allergies.
Mouth injuries also seem to bring on canker sores. Sodium lauryl sulfate , an ingredient in many toothpastes and mouthwashes, has been linked to canker sores, and sometimes the sores can be a sign of an immune system problem.
Even emotional stress could be a factor. One study of college students showed that they had more canker sores during stressful periods, such as around exam time.
What Can You Tell Me About Mouth Ulcers In Kids
Kids can develop mouth ulcers just like adults. You can manage symptoms by giving your child over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Ice, popsicles or cold liquids may help soothe the area. If your child has a mouth ulcer that hasnt healed in two weeks, call your healthcare provider.
A note from Cleveland Clinic
While mouth ulcers usually arent dangerous, they can certainly be painful and inconvenient. Fortunately there are several mouth ulcer treatments and remedies that can ease your symptoms until your lesions heal.
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What Causes Mouth Ulcers
The exact cause of mouth ulcers is unknown. But there are several factors that can contribute to the development of these sores:
- Minor tissue injury from dental work, such as having a cavity filled.
- Accidentally biting your cheek or tongue.
- Allergic reaction to certain bacteria.
- Viral, bacterial or fungal infections.
Why Toddlers Get Mouth Sores
Unfortunately, toddlers are just as susceptible to mouth sores as adults. Aphthous ulcers have a familial tendency and the cause of ulceration is uncertain but could relate to immune deficiency, minor injury or allergy amongst other things.
Cold sores are a form of herpes simplex virus type 1, a highly contagious virus transmitted through contact. In children, the initial transmission of cold sores is usually through an adult. Therefore, as hard as it may be to avoid kissing your little one, if you have a cold sore, you need to be very careful about contact with the child. Be sure to wash your hands often if you have an outbreak and dont test things with your mouth if the sore is on your lip.
Similarly, HFMD is also a viral infection usually caused by coxsackievirus. Most commonly seen in children, HFMD is a minor ailment that should subside within a week. According to SA Health, coughing and sneezing, or direct contact with bodily fluids, contaminated surfaces, objects or faecal matter are all ways of transmitting the virus.
Since cold sores and HFMD are incredibly contagious, you should be very careful to avoid direct contact with anyone who has active blisters or ulcers.
Injuries to the mouth can easily occur through normal toddler activities. For example, even brushing teeth too vigorously can cause damage. A burn to the mouth may be another way of causing injury if, for example, your toddler cant wait to dive into that plate of hot pasta.
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How Can I Prevent Mouth Ulcers
While you cant prevent mouth ulcers altogether, there are things you can do to reduce your risk. For example:
- Brush your teeth twice daily and floss once daily for optimal oral health.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid tissue irritation.
- Eat a healthy diet, rich in fresh fruits and vegetables.
- Visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.
If your healthcare provider determines that your mouth ulcers are connected to an underlying health issue, managing your condition can reduce the risk of ulcers returning.
Best Home Remedies For Mouth Ulcers In Children
Mouth sores which are also known as ulcers which occurs due to inflammation of the mucous membrane of mouth including lips. Mouth ulcers can occur in kids because of many reasons such as injury, stress, deficiency of vitamin & minerals, body heat or even due to food allergies. There might be lots of reasons but here are multiple home remedies to cure it with ease.
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Treatment Options For Mouth Ulcers In Children
As mentioned earlier, mouth ulcers do not require any special medication and heal on their own in a few days or a couple of weeks, depending on their size. The pain from the sores usually subsides within three to four days.
It is better to avoid hot, spicy or citrus food as they will make the ulcers hurt even more. The paediatrician may suggest applying teething gel or cream on the affected area.
In case of severe pains in the sores, you can request your doctor to give a proper dose of over the counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. It is advised not the give any kind of medication to your child without first consulting the doctor.
What Is A Canker Sore
Canker sores, known as aphthous ulcers, are small, shallow lesions, or sores, inside of the mouth. Theyre typically white, yellowish or gray with a red border. Theyre most often found on the inside of the lips or cheeks, on the roof of the mouth, on the tongue or on the gumline. Its most common to see a group or cluster of these mouth sores in kids, though a child can also have a single canker sore.
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Treatment For Cold Sores In Children
There is no cure for the HSV infection, but you can help to reduce pain by giving your child:
- lots of fluids, preferably water dehydration is a risk in small children if it is painful to swallow
- bland foods such as plain natural yoghurt
- little or no salty, spicy or acidic foods.
Ask your pharmacist about pain relief medication and antiviral creams.