dental care

Dental Health and Canker Sores: Causes, Symptoms, and Relief

By: BIOLASE

Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, are small but painful lesions that form inside the mouth. They can appear on the tongue, inner cheeks, gums, or even the throat, varying in size and intensity. While the exact cause of canker sores remains unclear, several factors are known to contribute to their development.

What Causes Canker Sores?

Canker sores may be triggered by:

  • Oral trauma (such as biting the inside of your cheek or irritation from braces or dental appliances)
  • High stress levels
  • Nutritional deficiencies, particularly in iron, folic acid, or B12
  • Food sensitivities, especially acidic or spicy foods like citrus fruits
  • Immune system disorders and certain underlying health conditions

These sores are not contagious and are distinctly different from cold sores, which are caused by the herpes simplex virus and appear outside the mouth.

Recognizing the Symptoms

Typical signs of a canker sore include:

  • A round or oval blister with a white, yellow, or gray center and a red border
  • A burning or tingling sensation before the sore appears
  • Pain when eating, talking, or brushing teeth

In more severe cases, additional symptoms may include:

  • Fever
  • Fatigue
  • Swollen lymph nodes

When to See a Dentist

Most canker sores are minor and heal on their own within 7–10 days. Over-the-counter pain relief and avoiding irritating foods can help manage discomfort during healing. However, if the sore is unusually large, persists longer than two weeks, or becomes more painful over time, it’s important to seek professional treatment.

Laser Therapy for Canker Sore Relief

BIOLASE offers an advanced treatment option with the Epic X laser system, a breakthrough in soft-tissue therapy. Using gentle yet effective laser energy, Epic X can:

  • Reduce pain immediately after treatment
  • Accelerate healing of the sore
  • Minimize inflammation and discomfort
  • Provide a non-invasive, drug-free solution

Many dental professionals use the Epic X Soft Tissue laser to treat canker sores in a fast, comfortable procedure that delivers lasting relief, often in just a single visit.

Takeaway

Canker sores are a common and uncomfortable issue, but they don’t have to disrupt your daily life. Whether you’re dealing with frequent outbreaks or a single persistent sore, BIOLASE’s Epic X laser technology offers a modern, effective treatment that helps you heal faster and feel better.

Ask your dentist about Epic X laser treatment for canker sores, and take the next step toward pain-free oral health.

Find A Waterlase Dentist Near You

Looking for a gentler, more comfortable dental experience?  Use our Find a Waterlase Dentist tool to connect with a local provider who offers advanced, minimally invasive laser dentistry. Whether you need a filling, root canal, or gum treatment, experience the difference of Waterlase today!

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