Canker Sores: Symptoms, Causes, and Remedies
Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, are small, shallow, and painful lesions that commonly appear inside the mouth. These sores can cause discomfort, especially while eating, drinking, or talking, but they are not contagious. Fortunately, most canker sores heal on their own within one to two weeks.
Canker sores commonly develop in the following areas:
- Canker sore inside mouth
- On the tongue (canker sore on tongue)
- On the lips (canker sore on lip)
Canker Sores Causes
The exact reason why canker sores form isn't fully understood, but several factors can trigger or contribute to their development:
- Stress or Anxiety: Emotional stress and anxiety can weaken the body’s defenses, making you more prone to canker sores.
- Hormonal Changes: Many individuals, especially women, may experience canker sores during certain phases of their menstrual cycle.
- Injury to the Mouth: Accidentally biting your cheek or lip, brushing too hard, or irritation from braces and dental appliances can lead to canker sores.
- Food Allergies and Sensitivities: Certain foods can trigger canker sores, especially those you may be allergic to.
- Acidic Foods: Citrus fruits, acidic juices (like orange juice), or spicy foods can irritate the soft tissues in the mouth and cause sores.
- Nutritional Deficiencies: A lack of key vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin B12, B6, folic acid, or zinc, is associated with the occurrence of canker sores.
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Get A Second OpinionCanker Sores Symptoms
Canker sores are easy to identify due to their distinct appearance and symptoms.
Characteristics of Canker Sores:
- Small ulcers with a red border and a white or yellow center.
- Typically shallow in the middle.
- Often start with a burning or tingling sensation.
Additional Symptoms:
- Pain that worsens while eating, drinking, or speaking.
- Fever (in rare cases).
- Large sores may cause significant discomfort.
If severe, some symptoms like bleeding gums, loose teeth, or swallowing difficulties might appear, which may indicate a more serious issue.
Treatment Options for Canker Sores
While most canker sores heal on their own, various treatments can alleviate pain and speed up the healing process.
Self-Care Measures
For minor sores, these remedies can provide relief:
- Saltwater Rinse: Mix a teaspoon of salt in warm water and swish it in your mouth to reduce inflammation.
- Baking Soda Solution: Dissolve baking soda in water and rinse to soothe irritation.
- Milk of Magnesia: Apply a small amount directly on the sore several times a day to reduce discomfort.
Mouth Rinses
If you have multiple or particularly painful sores, your doctor might recommend a prescription mouth rinse containing:
- Steroids: To reduce pain and swelling.
- Lidocaine: To numb the area and provide immediate relief.
Topical Products
Over-the-counter or prescription creams and gels can be directly applied to the sores to:
- Relieve pain.
- Promote faster healing.
Some common ingredients in these products include benzocaine, hydrogen peroxide, and fluocinonide.
Oral Medications
For severe or recurring canker sores that don’t respond to other treatments:
- Sucralfate: Typically used for stomach ulcers, this medication coats the sore and protects it from irritation.
- Colchicine: A treatment for gout that can also help with canker sores.
- Oral Steroids: Reserved for extreme cases due to potential side effects.
Cauterization of Sores
This procedure involves chemically or physically treating the sore to reduce healing time:
- Debacterol: A topical solution that can seal the sore and help it heal faster.
- Silver Nitrate: Another option, though it primarily relieves pain rather than speeding up healing.
Nutritional Supplements
If your sores are linked to vitamin or mineral deficiencies, your doctor may prescribe:
- Vitamin B12 or B6.
- Folic acid.
- Zinc supplements.
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Book an AppointmentHome Remedies for Canker Sores
In addition to medical treatments, these natural remedies can provide comfort:
- Honey: Dab a little honey onto the sore to soothe pain and prevent infection.
- Aloe Vera Gel: Known for its healing properties, aloe vera can be applied directly to the sore.
- Chamomile Tea: Swish cooled chamomile tea in your mouth to reduce inflammation.
- Ice Cubes: Gently suck on ice cubes to numb the sore and relieve discomfort.
- Coconut Oil: Swishing with coconut oil may help reduce bacterial growth and irritation.
When to Seek a Doctor for Canker Sore?
Although most canker sores are harmless and heal without complications, there are times when you should consult a healthcare provider:
- If a sore is unusually large or does not heal within two weeks.
- If the pain is severe and disrupts daily activities.
- If you have frequent outbreaks, indicating a possible underlying condition.
- If you notice unusual symptoms, such as fever, swollen lymph nodes, or difficulty swallowing.
Canker sores may seem minor, but persistent or severe cases could signal a more serious issue that requires professional care.
