Mouth problems

Denture Stomatitis – Quick OverviewWhat is it?
A fungal infection under dentures caused by Candida yeast. It's not contagious but leads to red, sore areas in the mouth.
Who’s at risk?
  • Denture wearers (especially upper dentures)
  • People with poor oral hygiene, diabetes, or on steroids/antibiotics
  • Smokers
Signs:
  • Redness under dentures
  • Cracks at the corners of the mouth
  • Often no pain, even if inflamed
Why treat it?
To ease discomfort, avoid poorly fitting dentures, and prevent recurring infections.

Treatment & Prevention Tips🧼 Good Hygiene:
  • Rinse mouth/dentures after meals
  • Quit smoking
🦷 Clean Dentures Properly:
  • Remove at night
  • Brush with denture cleaner (not toothpaste)
  • Soak daily (avoid bleach if metal parts; use chlorhexidine weekly)
💊 Medication (if needed):
  • Antifungal lozenges or tablets (usually for 1 month)

After Treatment:
  • Dentist will check healing
  • New dentures may be needed every few years
Long-Term Care:
  • Clean dentures daily
  • Visit your dentist regularly—even without natural teeth
➡️ Denture stomatitis is common but easily managed with proper care.
Burning Mouth Syndrome (BMS) – Quick Guide
What is it?
BMS is a burning, scalding, or tingling sensation in the mouth (often the tongue, lips, or palate) with no visible signs. It’s a nerve-related condition.
Who gets it?
Mostly middle-aged or older adults, especially women during menopause. It can also affect people with dry mouth, stress, vitamin deficiencies, diabetes, or poorly fitting dentures.
Causes
  • Hormone changes
  • Stress, anxiety, or depression
  • Dry mouth or acid reflux
  • Nutrient deficiencies (B12, iron, folate)
  • Reactions to toothpaste, mouthwash, or dentures
  • Oral thrush or nerve issues
Symptoms
  • Burning or tingling in the mouth
  • Dryness or metallic taste
  • Pain that worsens during the day
Treatment
  • Fix dental issues (e.g., adjust dentures)
  • Treat dry mouth, thrush, or deficiencies
  • Use prescribed meds (antidepressants, lozenges)
  • Try relaxation techniques or therapy
Self-care tips
  • Sip water often
  • Suck ice chips or chew sugar-free gum
  • Avoid spicy foods, alcohol, and tobacco
  • Use gentle dental products
Is it permanent?
It can last months or years, but symptoms can often be managed with the right treatment and care.
See a dentist or doctor if you think you have BMS for diagnosis and support.
​What Is a Cold Sore?A cold sore is a small, painful blister (usually on or around the lips) caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV-1). It starts as a blister, forms a yellow crust, and usually heals in 5–7 days.

How Do You Get Cold Sores?
  • Initial infection often happens in childhood.
  • Once you have the virus, it stays in your body and may cause future outbreaks.

Triggers
  • Feeling run down
  • Colds or flu
  • Sunlight (UV exposure)
  • Hormonal changes (e.g. periods)

Are Cold Sores Contagious?Yes – especially when blistering. Spread by:
  • Kissing
  • Touching the sore
  • Sharing items (like lip balm)
    ⚠️ Avoid touching the sore to prevent spreading it, including to eyes or other body parts.

Treatment
  • Use antiviral creams like aciclovir or penciclovir as soon as symptoms start.
  • These help reduce pain and healing time.

Prevention
  • Use lip sunscreen if sunlight is a trigger.
  • Don’t kiss or share personal items when you have a sore.
  • Keep hands clean and avoid touching the sore.

When to See a Doctor
  • Sores don’t heal in 2 weeks
  • You have a weakened immune system
  • You get frequent outbreaks

Other Tips
  • Dental visits: Call ahead—some dentists avoid treating patients with active sores.
  • Breastfeeding: Don’t kiss your baby near the sore to prevent passing the virus.
  • HSV can also affect fingers, eyes, or genitals—don’t touch the sore.

Cold sores are common and manageable with early care and caution.
What Is Dental Decay?Dental decay (or caries) is damage to teeth caused by acids made when sugars react with bacteria in plaque. Over time, this creates holes (cavities) in your teeth.

Causes
  • Sugary/acidic foods and drinks
  • Poor brushing habits
  • Frequent snacking or sipping sugary drinks

How It Happens
  1. Sugar + plaque bacteria = acid
  2. Acid attacks tooth enamel
  3. Repeated attacks cause cavities

Tooth Structure
  • Enamel: Hard outer layer, not sensitive
  • Dentine: Under enamel, very sensitive
  • Pulp: Center with nerves and blood vessels

Signs of Decay
  • Early stages: No symptoms
  • Sensitivity to sweets or hot foods
  • Pain or toothache
  • Visible holes or dark spots

If Untreated
  • Pain worsens
  • Infection or abscess may form
  • Tooth may need to be filled, root canal treated, or removed

Prevention Tips🪥 Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
🧵 Use floss or interdental brushes
🍽 Avoid sugary snacks between meals
🥤 Limit sugary/acidic drinks
🧴 Use fluoride varnish or fissure sealants (ask your dentist)
🧼 Visit your dentist regularly

Extra TipChew sugar-free gum after meals to boost saliva and help protect your teeth.

Good hygiene and smart food choices can help you avoid dental decay.