Do I Really Need to Brush My Baby’s Teeth?
Instilling good health habits in children means starting at a young age. With oral hygiene, it’s no different. But, is it necessary to brush your baby’s teeth? If so, when should you start? Find out here.
Should I See An Emergency Dentist For A Bad Canker Sore?
I have a canker sore that won’t go away and I am wondering if I should see an emergency dentist. Over the weekend the sore got more painful. It’s pretty big too. When I smile or chew, just the movement seems to make the sore hurt worse. A white pus-like bump is on the top of the sore. I have been tempted to sterilize a need and pop it, but my sister told me that I shouldn’t do it myself. She says it could be infected and make me sick. Is this something an emergency dentist would handle or should I just buy something over-the-counter for it until it heals on its own? Thanks Lorine
Lorine,
We suggest that you try at-home care before you see an emergency dentist. Canker sores usually heal within two weeks, but at-home care can make the discomfort more manageable until the sore goes away. Major canker sores are uncommon and can take up to six weeks to heal.
There are over-the-counter products that might give you some relief, including oral anesthetics or gel pads designed to cover canker sores. The gel pads might contain antiseptics to kill germs. Otherwise, you can buy topical antiseptic if it looks like the sore is becoming infected. The sore can also be treated with a mixture of 50% water and 50% hydrogen peroxide. Although it isn’t made to treat canker sores, Listerine is a germ killer that can provide pain relief.
Canker sores can result from an injury, stress, illness, allergies, or a dental appliance. Certain viruses or other medical conditions can present themselves in a sore that looks like a canker sore. If the sore doesn’t improve, have it examined by your medical doctor or a dentist.
If during your self-care the canker sore gets more painful or irritated, it will be wise to schedule an appointment with a dentist. There are other unusual symptoms that require the attention of your dentist or doctor, including:
- Recurring sores
- A sore that enlarges or spreads into the lip
- A fever
- Extreme difficulty eating or drinking
This post is sponsored by San Jose dentists Dr. Ralph Stanley, Dr. Magdalena Azzarelli, and Dr. Rogé Jacob of Hillsdale Dental Care.
You Might Also Enjoy...
5 Invaluable Benefits of Twice-Yearly Dental Visits
Maintaining oral health is important, but the brushing and flossing you do at home isn’t always enough to prevent problems. That’s where annual dental visits come in. Read on to learn five key benefits of twice yearly oral health check-ups.
Understanding Fluoride: 5 Common Myths About “Nature’s Cavity Fighter,” Debunked
Most dental experts agree that fluoride is an important preventive tool for better oral health — but some people are wary of this all-natural cavity fighter. Here, we separate fact from fiction.
What Happens If I Delay a Recommended Root Canal?
A root canal already has a bad reputation because people often associate it with pain, but it’s actually a tooth-saving treatment that’s more like having a deep cavity filled. Here’s what can happen if you delay a recommended root canal.
Pediatric Oral Health: 5 Invaluable Benefits of Dental Sealants
Protecting your child’s teeth as they develop is vital to their long-term oral health. Dental sealants are a simple and highly effective way to protect against cavities and keep your child’s mouth healthy as they grow up.
Are Your Teeth Getting Darker? Try Opalescence® Boost
Whether your teeth are getting darker because of dental problems, aging, or lifestyle habits, teeth whitening is a highly effective solution for brightening your smile. And when it comes to whitening options, nothing beats Opalescence® Boost.