2008 Woodie Awards
Science Q & A
Q. I get small sores in my mouth. What could be causing it?
Issue date: 9/20/07 Section: Sci/Tech
- Page 1 of 2 next >
A. There could be several culprits, here. If the sores are located on the inside of your mouth, it is most likely canker sores. These are generally round or oval, whitish sores with red, inflamed rims. They are pretty painful, as they are small ulcers in your mouth, and, oftentimes, they appear in inconvenient spots that rub against teeth or accidentally get bitten. These sores generally occur on the inside of one's cheeks or lips, but they can also pop up on the tongue and roof of the mouth. Sometimes several of them are present at the same time. Canker sores can be caused by a wide array of things. They can be a reaction to hot or acidic food, an irritation in the mouth (such as new orthodontia, dentures, a cracked tooth, etc). No one knows exactly what causes the sores initially-scientists have not determined whether they are bacterial or viral, or if they are simply caused by compromised immune systems. In any case, these sores do not seem to be transmissible. Generally, they heal within a couple weeks, though constant irritation can prolong the process. Over-the-counter ointments, anti-bacterial creams, and numbing agents approved for oral pain can be used to assuage the soreness and help healing. One should be aware, however, that a large concurrent breakout of these sores can be an early sign of HIV. If the inside of your mouth is filled with a multitude of these or other types of wounds, abscesses, or blisters, you should make an appointment with your family physician, as well as taking the necessary precautions against potentially spreading sexual transmitted diseases. HIV is generally not considered something that can be transmitted from mouth to mouth kissing, though in cases in which a person has open sores or bleeding gums, there is a risk associated with coming in contact with the fluids.
If you are a smoker, or you habitually gnaw on the inside of your cheeks, the problem could be leukoplakia. This oral condition is characterized by a "thick, whitish-color patch that forms on the inside of the cheeks, gums or tongue," according to the American Dental Association. You should see a dentist to make sure the patch of excess cell growth is not, or does not, become malignant.
If you are a smoker, or you habitually gnaw on the inside of your cheeks, the problem could be leukoplakia. This oral condition is characterized by a "thick, whitish-color patch that forms on the inside of the cheeks, gums or tongue," according to the American Dental Association. You should see a dentist to make sure the patch of excess cell growth is not, or does not, become malignant.
Be the first to comment on this story