Canker Sores

Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, are small, painful lesions that develop in the soft tissues of your mouth or at the base of your gums. Unlike cold sores, canker sores don’t occur on the surface of your lips and they aren’t contagious. They can be quite uncomfortable and can make eating, drinking, and talking difficult. 

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What are Canker Sores?

Canker sores are shallow, round or oval ulcers that appear inside the mouth. They can be white or yellow and are often surrounded by a red border. These ulcers can appear on the inside of the cheeks, lips, under the tongue, or at the base of the gums. Although they are generally small, canker sores can cause significant pain and discomfort.

Types of Canker Sores

There are three primary types of canker sores:

Minor Canker Sores

Minor canker sores are the most common form and account for about 80% of all cases. They are usually small, oval-shaped, and heal without scarring within one to two weeks.

Major Canker Sores

Major canker sores are less common and are larger and deeper than minor canker sores. They have irregular edges and can take up to six weeks to heal. Major canker sores can leave scars.

Herpetiform Canker Sores

Herpetiform canker sores are the least common type. They are tiny, pinpoint sores that appear in clusters of 10 to 100. Despite their name, herpetiform canker sores are not caused by the herpes virus.

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What Causes Canker Sores?

The exact cause of canker sores remains unknown, but several factors may contribute to their development:

Trauma or Injury

Accidental cheek bites, vigorous tooth brushing, or dental work can cause minor injuries that lead to canker sores.

Food Sensitivities

Certain foods, including citrus fruits, tomatoes, chocolate, coffee, strawberries, eggs, nuts, and cheese, can trigger canker sores in some people.

Nutritional Deficiencies

Deficiencies in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin B12, zinc, folic acid, and iron, have been associated with canker sores.

Stress and Hormonal Changes

Emotional stress and hormonal shifts, such as those occurring during menstruation, can contribute to the development of canker sores.

Medical Conditions

Conditions such as celiac disease and Crohn’s disease are linked to an increased occurrence of canker sores.

Allergies

Allergic reactions to certain bacteria in the mouth can lead to canker sores.

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How to Treat Canker Sores

While canker sores usually heal on their own, several treatments can help alleviate pain and speed up the healing process.

Over-the-Counter Treatments

Topical treatments such as benzocaine (Anbesol, Orabase) and hydrogen peroxide rinses (Peroxyl) can provide pain relief and promote healing.

Prescription Medications

For severe or persistent cases, your doctor may prescribe stronger treatments, including corticosteroid ointments or oral medications.

Home Remedies

Several home remedies can help soothe the pain of canker sores:

Avoiding Irritating Foods

Avoid spicy, acidic, or rough-textured foods that can irritate canker sores and exacerbate pain.

Preventing Canker Sores

While it may not be possible to prevent canker sores entirely, certain strategies can reduce their frequency and severity.

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

Regular brushing and flossing can help prevent infections and reduce the risk of canker sores. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid injury to your gums and oral tissues.

Avoid Trigger Foods

Identify and avoid foods that trigger canker sores. Keep a food diary to help pinpoint any dietary culprits.

Manage Stress

Practice stress-reducing techniques such as meditation, exercise, and deep-breathing exercises to minimize the impact of stress on your body.

Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water to keep your mouth moist and reduce the risk of canker sores.