Canker Sores and Cold Sores in Markham, ON
Canker sores are potentially painful small ulcers that develop in the mouth. Although the cause is unclear, and they typically resolve quickly, we can address any concerns you might have.
If you find them happening frequently or not healing, let us know. Our dentist may be able to diagnose an underlying condition.
What are the causes of canker and cold sores in Markham?
While there are not always definitive causes of canker sores and cold sores in Markham, these are possible reasons they occur:
- Stress
- Tissue injury from your tooth or a dental appliance
- Citrus fruits, or acidic fruits or vegetables
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
- A reaction to food allergy or an ingredient in your toothpaste or mouthwash
- Helicobacter pylori, the bacteria that can cause peptic ulcers
Some risk factors include an underlying health condition, such as poor immunity, HIV/AIDS, lupus, or Behcet’s disease.
You may also have vitamin B12, zinc, or folate deficiency, or gastrointestinal disorders such as celiac or Crohn’s disease. Canker sores in Markham are also more common in women and may be hereditary.
What are the symptoms, treatment options, and prevention steps?
There are a few primary characteristics our dentist looks for to diagnose a canker sore:
- A painful sore inside your tongue, soft palate, lip, or cheek
- A tingling or burning sensation before the sore even develops
- Round, white or grey sores with red around the edge
Pain from canker sores usually dissipate quickly, and they heal without treatment within approximately one week. For bigger, painful sores that last longer, we may recommend:
- A prescription mouthwash with a steroid or painkiller
- An oral medication, such as those used to treat ulcers and gout, and steroid pills
- Nutritional supplements in the case of a vitamin deficiency
- Cautery with dental lasers or chemicals
- Topical products, such as medicated gels, creams, pastes, and liquids
- Mouth rinses with salt or baking soda in warm water
- Milk of magnesia placed on a cotton swab dabbed on the sore
To help prevent canker sores in Markham, avoid chewing gum and eating spicy, citric, or acidic foods, as these can irritate your mouth.
You can also brush your teeth with soft bristles after eating and floss daily to keep food out.
How to treat cold sores
Cold sores, also known as fever blisters or herpes simplex type 1, are painful blisters filled with fluid. They are highly contagious and usually develop outside of your mouth, such as on your nose, lip, or chin. Further, cold sores are caused by a virus.
While they generally clear up without treatment in a couple of weeks, you may try:
- Prescription antiviral medications, available as topical creams, pills, or injections
- Lysine, an amino acid that is available as an oral supplement and as a cream
- Stress reduction via relaxation techniques, deep-breathing exercises, and meditation
- Synthetic beeswax, available as a 3% ointment
- Rhubarb and sage in a cream formulation
Schedule your canker and cold sores consultation in Markham today
At 7 Days Dental, we are committed to your complete oral health. Contact us at our Markham dental office to discuss your canker sores or cold sores.
Frequently Asked Questions — Canker Sores and Cold Sores
Yes. While most cases clear up on their own, dentists can provide prescription treatments, laser therapy, or medication to reduce pain and speed up healing.
Costs vary depending on the type of treatment. Over-the-counter remedies are generally affordable, while in-office treatments or prescriptions may involve additional fees. A consultation with a dentist can provide a clearer estimate.
Some dental insurance plans may cover part of the cost if treatment is considered medically necessary, especially for recurring or severe cases. Coverage depends on the specific policy.
Maintaining good oral hygiene, managing stress, avoiding foods that trigger irritation, and using a soft-bristled toothbrush can help reduce recurrence.
Yes. Braces, dentures, or sharp edges on dental appliances can sometimes irritate the mouth lining and lead to sores. Your dentist can recommend protective solutions or adjustments.
Yes. Cold sores can spread even before blisters appear or after they heal, as the virus remains active in the body.
Seek care if sores are unusually large, last longer than two weeks, cause significant pain, or occur frequently. Professional evaluation ensures that symptoms are not linked to other conditions.
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