Ask the Dentist with Dr. Mark Burhenne

Episode #77: How do you prevent and treat canker sores?

Feb 20, 2023

42:25

Once again, we are thrilled to welcome the impeccable Dr. Staci Whitman to the show, as she and Dr. B fill you in on everything you need to know about sores in your mouth. We begin by taking a look at the differences between canker sores and cold sores, why you should reexamine your oral products, and the often overlooked harmful effects of sodium lauryl sulfate. Then, we discuss skin trauma and mouth breathing as causes of mouth sores, and we later add stress and fatigue to the list. When choosing oral products for children, you should do so with careful consideration, and our hosts give examples of common oral ailments found in kids. You should always seek medical advice when mouth sores are a common problem for you, and you’d be wise to avoid certain essential oils, hydrogen peroxide, and other harmful products. For more on how the oral microbiome relates to mouth sores, why Dr. Staci is obsessed with pickleball, and the highs and lows of the week, tune in now!

Key Points From This Episode:

Dr. Staci’s obsession with pickleball as she asks the audience for pickleball tips [01:20]
Doctors B and Staci discuss the electric flosser and bee propolis [02:38]
The difference between a canker sore and a cold sore [11:11]
Why you should take a closer look at the oral products you use [16:11]
Breaking down the harmful effects of sodium lauryl sulfate [17:48]
How skin trauma and mouth breathing can cause mouth sores [20:42]
The power of salt [22:01]
Some nutritional advice for dealing with mouth sores [28:24]
Why essential oils are not always a good idea [32:42]
The overuse of hydrogen peroxide and other harmful chemicals/products [33:47]
How the oral microbiome could affect mouth sores [36:56]