When you have a canker sore, the white stuff that accumulates around the sore is not just gross. It’s also a sign that there might be something seriously wrong with your tooth. In this blog post, we will explore what the white stuff is and what you should do if it starts to accumulate.
What is a Canker sore?
Canker sores, also known as pompholyx or furunculosis, are small, fleshy ulcers that can form on any part of the body. They typically occur on the lower lip or tongue and are caused by a variety of viruses and bacteria. These often itch intensely and feel hot to the touch. They may also cause a sore throat and fever. If not treated promptly, these can become infected and lead to more serious conditions such as pneumonia. These can be treated with antibiotics if necessary, but care must be taken to avoid further infection.
What causes canker sores?
These are a type of blister that form on the tongue, cheeks, or soft tissues of the mouth. They can be caused by a number of factors, including viral infections and sun exposure. These may also be a sign of other health problems, such as oral cancer.
To treat mouth ulcers, your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic or antiseptic treatment. In some cases, you may also need to apply ice or heat to the sore to reduce inflammation. If the sore becomes infected, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to clear it up.
How to treat canker sores
If you get them, the best way to treat them is to:
abstain from eating acidic foods and drinks
apply an over-the-counter antihistamine if it feels like the pain is too severe
use a topical cream or ointment such as benadryl or zyrtec when available
allow the sore to heal naturally, which may take several weeks depending on how severe the lesion is
Home remedies for canker sores
Canker sores, or mouth ulcers, can be frustrating and embarrassing. They can also be painful, red, and swollen. Often times they form on the inside of the lip or in the roof of your mouth. The white stuff that often accumulates inside a canker sore is called pus. These usually heal on their own but may require antibiotics to prevent them from becoming infected. Here are some home remedies for mouth ulcers:
- Apply ice packs to the affected area:Ice packs help reduce inflammation and pain, two common symptoms of mouth ulcers. Place a cold pack on the affected area for 20 minutes each evening before bedtime.
- gargle with salt water:Salt water is a natural sudorific agent (it produces sweat), which helps to dry out the ulcer and kill bacteria that may be causing infection. Swish 1 cup of room-temperature water mixed with ½ teaspoon salt around your mouth several times a day.
- Try honey:Honey is antibacterial and has been shown to help speed healing time for mouth ulcers in some cases. Apply honey to the ulcer twice a day while it is still wet, then rinse off after 10 minutes. Honey should not be used if you have a cold or other type of respiratory illness because it could increase your symptoms.
- Take ibuprofen: Ibuprofen is an effective pain reliever for canker.
What is the white stuff in a canker sore?
The white stuff that appears in mouth ulcers is released by the tissue as it heals. This cloudy fluid may contain dead skin cells and other debris.
