Handling Your Child’s Canker Sores

If you’ve ever experienced a canker sore, you know exactly how irritating and painful they can be. Unfortunately, the American Association of Pediatric Dentistry has concluded that around 1 in 5 children will suffer from canker sores. These small red sores can occur anywhere in the mouth – on the tongue, underneath the tongue, on the gums, lips or inside of the cheeks. While canker sores aren’t contagious, there is a genetic link, suggesting that if you suffer from frequent cold sores, your child might as well.

Causes Of Canker Sores

There have been many things linked to cold sores, but the most common causes are:

• Biting or chewing the cheeks or lips
• Food allergies
• Brushing your teeth too aggressively
• Stress or anxiety
• Hormonal changes, such as pregnancy or menopause
• Injuries to the mouth
• Not getting enough iron, folic acid, or B vitamins

How To Help Your Child’s Canker Sores

• Avoid giving your child food that’s too spicy, salty, or acidic
• Give your child yogurt or acidophilus supplements
• Make sure your child is using a soft-bristled toothbrush and brushing gently
• Have your child swish with a water and baking soda mixture
• There are over-the-counter medications that can help ease the symptoms – including Camphor, Orajel, and Benzocaine

If your child currently has a painful canker sore, or if he or she suffers from frequent outbreaks of canker sores, please contact Great Outdoors Pediatric Dentistry, located in Dover, New Hampshire. We want to help in any way we can!