Small sores in mouth
Small mouth sores are usually ulcers caused by minor injury, irritation, or inflammation, but a sore that persists, recurs often, or comes with other.
The short answer
Small mouth sores are usually ulcers caused by minor injury, irritation, or inflammation, but a sore that persists, recurs often, or comes with other symptoms needs an examination.
What is the direct answer?
What does this question mean?
A mouth sore is a break or inflamed area in the lining of the cheek, lip, tongue, palate, or gum. Common examples include an aphthous ulcer, a trauma ulcer from biting or a sharp tooth, and a cold sore on the lip caused by herpes simplex virus.
What can you do next?
Rinse gently with warm salt water, use a soft toothbrush, avoid spicy or acidic foods, and protect the area from sharp teeth or appliances. Do not scrape the sore or place aspirin directly on it; a dentist can smooth an irritant and may prescribe a topical treatment after checking the cause.
When should you seek dental care?
Arrange dental care if the sore lasts longer than two weeks, repeatedly returns, enlarges, bleeds, becomes very painful, or makes eating difficult. Seek prompt medical help for facial swelling, fever, trouble swallowing, or breathing.
What should you ask the dentist?
Ask whether the appearance fits an aphthous ulcer, trauma, infection, or another lesion, whether a sharp tooth or appliance is contributing, and what treatment is appropriate for its location and duration.
Frequently asked questions
What should I ask about this concern?
Ask whether the appearance fits an aphthous ulcer, trauma, infection, or another lesion, whether a sharp tooth or appliance is contributing, and what treatment is appropriate for its location and duration.
What signs should change the timing of care?
Arrange dental care if the sore lasts longer than two weeks, repeatedly returns, enlarges, bleeds, becomes very painful, or makes eating difficult. Seek prompt medical help for facial swelling, fever, trouble swallowing, or breathing.