Exploring the Relationship between Canker Sores and Toothpaste

Canker sores are painful, annoying and can be easily aggravated. It is perhaps somewhat surprising women are more prone to developing this condition than men. However, both genders are subject to this recurring ailment. Interestingly, canker sores are not as easily treated as other oral problems. While a receding gums treatment may take care of the gum problem by a professional, there is no bona fide canker sore treatment capable of accomplishing the same.

Granted, receding gums are a lot more serious than canker sores. However, when treated properly they are easily avoided in the future. The same cannot be said for canker sores, which have shown to be a condition to which some individuals are genetically predisposed. Of course, there are other reasons for the development of theses sores. Most notably, any kind of trauma to the inner lining of the mouth (such as a self inflicted bit wound) can be a common cause. In other cases, it is a change in the bodily chemistry of the individual that triggers the formation of a canker sore.

Unfortunately, treatment is slow. If a patient is suffering concurrently from dental problems such as bleeding gums, treatment sometimes is prolonged. Dental healthcare professionals are looking for prevention to offer relief. As scientists and dentists are looking at the options available to them, they are also seeking to find a common link between those patients who complain of frequent canker sores.

They’ve ruled out any connection with respect to gender and ingested foods or medicines. However, it is sobering that in the course of undergoing routine gingivitis treatment, a common cause appears to have crystallized: sodium lauryl sulfate. It is a foaming agent found in virtually all commercially available toothpastes on the market today. Studies have made the connection between the potential of this chemical’s damage to the top layers of the oral cavity’s mucosa and the subsequent appearance of canker sores.

While exploring the relationship between canker sores and toothpaste, many dental healthcare professionals have changed their recommendations for at-home hygiene. They now recommend patients the dentist twice a year, undergo whatever periodontal disease treatment is indicated at the time and follow up the treatment at home with an oral hygiene routine that involves the use of natural toothpaste. Furthermore, it is highly suggested to check the labels of other oral hygiene products. This can ensure this substance is not found in anything else coming in contact with the tender gums and inside lining of the oral cavity.