Dentistry/gum ulcer

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Expert: - 10/26/2006


Question
Hi:
Throughout my life from time to time I have gotten minor ulcers on the inside of my mouth, probably caused by accidently hitting the area with a toothbrush or something.  Recently, however, I have gotten one on my upper gum.  It's the same kind of sore, just on the gum.  I have never had one on the gum before, they have always been on the inside of the cheek or lip.  Is it normal to have ones on the gum too?

Thanks

Sean Ryan

Answer
Hi,
The ulcer could be a few different things including trauma (as you suggested) or it could be a canker sore or a certain form of herpes (not serious). The best way to figure out what is going on would be to see a dentist while you have one of these ulcers.

Best of Luck,
Joseph Zelig, DDS

Dentistry

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Joseph Zelig, DDS, D.ABP www.smileinthecity.com

Expertise

Dr. Zelig is a board-certified Periodontist and an expert on dental implants. Dr. Zelig can answer any and all questions you have about complex dental problems, dental implants, gum disease, treatment of gum recession, and treatment of a "gummy smile".

Experience

Dr. Zelig has personally placed over a thousand implants with excellent success and has worked with many dental specialists and educated them on full mouth reconstruction, esthetic dentistry, and dental implantology.

Organizations
American Dental Associateion, American Academy of Periodontology, American Board of Periodontology, North-Eastern Society of Periodontitis, New York State Dental Association, New York County Dental Society

Education/Credentials
I received both my dental degree (DDS) and my certificate in the specialty of Periodontics from New York University College of Dentistry. Dr. Zelig graduated among the top 10% of the graduating class. As a result of outstanding academic achievements, Dr. Z was elected into the membership of Omicron Kappa Upsilon- the national dental honor society. In addition, Dr. Zelig has lectured to general dentists and specialists on periodontal treatment and dental implants. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology which recognizes periodontists who have made significant achievements beyond the educational requirements of the specialty. Board-certified periodontists have been examined by a panel of internationally respected peers and has been awarded Diplomate status. By successfully completing this challenge, Dr. Zelig has demonstrated a robust knowledge of periodontics, Continued professional development, Critical review of results of therapy, and interest in providing the best, most up-to-date care.

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