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What is mouth pain and discomfort?

Mouth pain and discomfort can be caused by everything from mouth sores to infections to tooth issues. These problems are common, with nearly 100% of adults having pain or discomfort from dental cavities or suffering from a mouth sore at some point in their life.

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Services are available at MinuteClinic (virtual care also available) and CVS Pharmacy®

Insurance and pricing

Most insurance accepted. Check your coverage or estimate the cost of your visit if you’re uninsured or prefer to pay out-of-pocket.

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Need to know more about Mouth pain and discomfort treatment? We’ve got you covered.

What symptoms can occur with mouth pain and discomfort?

Pain is the primary symptom of an oral condition, but you can have oral problems and discomfort without pain. For instance, a fungal infection can make your mouth itchy, or you may simply notice an unusual taste in your mouth. Symptoms of oral problems can include:

  • Bad breath
  • Blisters
  • Burning sensation
  • Cracks in the corners of your mouth
  • Fever
  • Itching
  • Open sores
  • Pain
  • Sensitivity to hot/cold foods and beverages
  • Spots in your mouth (such as white, red, gray or black)
  • Swelling of your tongue, glands and face
  • Trouble swallowing
  • Trouble talking

Your symptoms can help guide your MinuteClinic® provider in the direction of a diagnosis. Do not ignore ongoing mouth symptoms, even if they are mild, as they may be a sign of a more serious disease. Get a full mouth evaluation and treatment plan so that you can feel better.

Getting help

A MinuteClinic provider can discuss your symptoms and health history. They can examine you and develop a treatment plan. They can also prescribe medication, if needed.

  1. You may have to answer a few questions about symptoms to help us prepare for your visit prior to scheduling your appointment.

  2. Check-in varies depending on how you scheduled your appointment:

    If you made your appointment online:
    Check in using the email or text message we sent to confirm your appointment. If you prefer to check in using the electronic kiosk, make sure you have your confirmation code.

    If you made your appointment in the clinic:
    Sign in at the electronic kiosk.

    If you made a MinuteClinic Virtual Care® appointment:
    To join your virtual visit, use the link in the email or text message we sent you to confirm your appointment. Please join 15 minutes before your scheduled visit time. You will need your date of birth and ZIP code to join the visit.

  3. When it's time for your appointment, a provider will call your name.
  4. Your provider will conduct a thorough examination based on your reason for visit, presenting symptoms and health history. Charges will be based on examination and services provided during the visit.
  5. At the end of your visit, you are provided with a visit summary, receipt and educational material about your diagnosis. At your request, we can send your primary care provider information about your visit.

Mouth pain and discomfort treatment causes, symptoms and treatment

Any number of things can cause your mouth to hurt. Sometimes the problem is inside of your mouth and sometimes the pain comes from another body part, and it just feels like it’s in your mouth. Examples of things that can cause oral discomfort include:

  • Arthritis of the jaw
  • Cancer
  • Cavities
  • Cleft lip/palate
  • Infections (such as fungal infections like thrush or viral infections like hand, foot and mouth disease)
  • Nerve injury in the face or neck
  • Periodontal (gum) disease
  • Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ/TMD)

Some people are more prone to mouth problems than others. Certain medical conditions and lifestyle habits can put you at a higher risk of oral problems. Examples of things that increase your risk of mouth problems include:

  • Diabetes
  • High sugar intake (such as eating lots of candy)
  • Not brushing your teeth
  • Pregnancy
  • Tobacco use
  • Unhealthy diet

Diet and tobacco use are the biggest risk factors for oral problems. Cutting back on sugar and reducing or ending your tobacco use can drastically decrease mouth problems and improve your overall health.

Left untreated, some mouth conditions can become serious.

Mouth pain and discomfort treatment prevention

The treatment you need for your mouth problem will depend on the underlying cause. Antifungals are used to treat thrush, for instance, while dental work might be required for issues related to your teeth. Your MinuteClinic provider can offer you treatments that include antifungals, antibiotics, anti-viral medications, medications for pain, over-the-counter medicines and home remedies for reducing discomfort.

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IMPORTANT! PLEASE READ: This material is for reference only and should not be used to determine treatment for specific medical conditions. Please visit a health care provider for evaluation, diagnosis and treatment of any symptoms you may be experiencing. If you're experiencing a medical emergency, please dial 911 or visit your local emergency department.

 

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