Management of Common Oral Sores
Management of Common Oral Sores
Since not all oral sores are benign, a careful differential diagnosis is important. There are many conditions that mimic and some drugs that produce classic aphthous ulcers. Most lesions can be diagnosed based on clinical appearance and history. However, if an oral sore does not heal within a certain time frame, a biopsy may be required.
Early intervention is important with both RAS and herpetic lesions. A properly diagnosed RAS responds well to topical corticosteroids. Herpes labialis responds well to oral and topical antiviral agents.
Conclusion
Since not all oral sores are benign, a careful differential diagnosis is important. There are many conditions that mimic and some drugs that produce classic aphthous ulcers. Most lesions can be diagnosed based on clinical appearance and history. However, if an oral sore does not heal within a certain time frame, a biopsy may be required.
Early intervention is important with both RAS and herpetic lesions. A properly diagnosed RAS responds well to topical corticosteroids. Herpes labialis responds well to oral and topical antiviral agents.
