Oral lesions can be the symptom of a variety of pathologies requiring special attention. Good oral hygiene, combined with regular visits to the dentist, plays a crucial role in prevention. In case of doubt or persistent symptoms, it is essential to consult a health professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. Keep in mind that caring for your mouth is an essential pillar of your overall well-being.
Oral lesions refer to any type of sore, ulceration or abnormality on the tissues of the mouth, including the gums, tongue, palate and inside of the cheeks. They can be caused by a variety of factors, including infection, medical conditions, trauma or poor oral hygiene.
Symptoms vary according to the nature of the lesion, but can include pain, bleeding, increased sensitivity, and difficulty in eating or speaking. Oral lesions can also manifest as visual changes such as redness, ulceration or white patches.
To prevent the appearance of oral lesions, good oral hygiene is essential, including regular brushing with fluoride toothpaste, flossing and regular visits to the dentist. Avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption is also crucial.
Treatment of oral lesions depends on their cause. Options include antiviral or antibacterial medication in the event of infection, antiseptic mouthwashes to reduce pain and inflammation, and dietary adjustments to avoid irritation of the lesions. In some cases, surgery may be required.
Some natural remedies, such as rinsing the mouth with a saline solution or applying honey to the lesions, can help relieve pain and speed healing. However, they are no substitute for appropriate medical treatment, especially in the case of persistent or painful lesions.
It's important to consult a dentist or doctor if oral lesions don't heal within two weeks, if they are accompanied by severe symptoms such as fever, or if they significantly affect your ability to eat or speak. Early intervention is key to effective treatment.
Benign oral lesions, such as canker sores, tend to be small, shallow and heal on their own in one to two weeks. More serious or potentially worrisome lesions, such as pre-cancerous or cancerous lesions, may manifest as rapid growth, color changes, irregular edges, or an inability to heal. Any noticeable change in the appearance of a lesion or the presence of symptoms such as pain, difficulty swallowing, or a sensation of a foreign body in the throat requires prompt medical evaluation.
Some infections that cause mouth sores, such as herpes labialis, can be transmitted by sharing glasses, utensils or other objects that come into contact with the saliva of an infected person. To reduce the risk of transmission, it's advisable to avoid sharing these objects, especially if you know someone is infected.
Yes, children can also suffer from mouth sores. The causes can vary from simple irritations caused by biting the cheek or tongue, to more serious infections such as herpetic gingivostomatitis. It's important to maintain good oral hygiene from an early age, and to consult a pediatrician or pediatric dentist in the event of persistent or painful lesions.
A balanced diet plays a crucial role in preventing oral lesions. Deficiencies in vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin B12, iron and folic acid, can increase the risk of developing mouth lesions. Eating a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains helps maintain a healthy oral mucosa and reduce the risk of lesions.
Several methods can be used to relieve the pain of oral lesions. Antiseptic or saltwater mouthwashes can reduce inflammation and pain. Applying ice to the lesions can also offer temporary relief. Avoiding acidic, spicy or salty foods, which can further irritate lesions, is also recommended. In some cases, analgesic drugs or local anaesthetic gels prescribed by a healthcare professional may be necessary to manage pain effectively.
