Even though a fever blister is often referred to as a “cold sore,” it is not the same as a canker sore. Fever blisters form on or around the mouth while canker sores develop on the inside of the cheeks and lips or under the tongue. Fever blisters are spread by a virus and are contagious but canker sores are not.
There are various theories about what causes a canker sore to erupt. They range anywhere from the ingredients in some toothpaste to the patient being under a high level of stress. There are, however, some factors that seem to make some people more susceptible than others. Teenagers and young adults, for instance, seem to suffer more than other age groups and girls more often than boys. There could also be a family tendency.,
A canker sore can be quite painful especially in the first few days making it difficult to eat and speak normally. It should run its course within a few weeks time but if not consult with your pediatric dentist about treatment. In the meantime try to steer your son or daughter away from spicy foods and acidic drinks that may irritate the condition. Check your toothpaste to make sure it is free of the foaming agent SLS (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate) which has been known to aggravate oral tissues in some cases.
Visit the website www.kids-dental.com to take a virtual tour of the Kaelin Pediatric Dentistry facilities and call today @ 303-835-9330.