Canker sores, medically known as aphthous ulcers, are small, shallow lesions that develop on the soft tissues inside your mouth or at the base of your gums.
Unlike cold sores, they are not contagious and do not occur on the surface of your lips.
However, they can be painful and make eating and talking uncomfortable.
Understanding Canker Sores
Canker sores are a prevalent oral condition, affecting approximately 20% of the population at some point in their lives.
They typically appear as round or oval ulcers with a white or yellow center and a red border.
These sores can develop on the inside of the cheeks, lips, under the tongue, or at the base of the gums.
Most canker sores heal on their own within one to two weeks.
Common Causes
While the exact cause of canker sores remains unclear, several factors may trigger their development:
✔ Minor Oral Injuries
Accidental bites, dental work, or aggressive tooth brushing can damage the mucous membrane, leading to sores.
✔ Nutritional Deficiencies
Lack of essential nutrients like vitamin B12, zinc, folic acid, and iron may contribute to the formation of canker sores.
✔ Stress and Hormonal Changes
Emotional stress and hormonal fluctuations, particularly in women, have been associated with the occurrence of canker sores.
✔ Food Sensitivities
Certain foods, including citrus fruits, tomatoes, chocolate, coffee, strawberries, eggs, nuts, and cheese, can trigger canker sores in some individuals.
✔ Toothpaste and Mouth Rinses
Products containing sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) may irritate the oral tissues and lead to sores.
✔ Underlying Health Conditions
Diseases such as celiac disease, Crohn's disease, and HIV/AIDS can cause recurrent canker sores.
Home Remedies and Management
Most canker sores heal without treatment, but several home remedies can alleviate discomfort and promote healing:
✔ Salt Water Rinse
Dissolve 1 teaspoon of salt in 1/2 cup of warm water and rinse your mouth to reduce pain and inflammation.
✔ Baking Soda Rinse
Mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda in 1/2 cup of warm water and use it as a mouth rinse to neutralize acids and soothe the sore.
✔ Milk of Magnesia
Apply a small amount directly to the sore a few times a day to relieve pain and expedite healing.
✔ Avoid Irritating Foods
Steer clear of spicy, acidic, or abrasive foods that can exacerbate the sore.
✔ Use a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush
This minimizes irritation to the oral tissues.
✔ Over-the-Counter Products
Topical pastes, creams, gels, or mouth rinses containing active ingredients like benzocaine can provide pain relief.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Consult a healthcare professional if you experience:
✔ Unusually large sores.
✔ Sores that persist for more than two weeks.
✔ Recurring sores, with new ones developing before old ones heal.
✔ Severe pain not alleviated by over-the-counter remedies.
✔ High fever accompanying the sores.
Persistent or unusually severe canker sores may indicate an underlying health condition that requires medical evaluation.
Conclusion
By understanding the potential triggers and implementing appropriate home remedies, most individuals can manage canker sores effectively.
However, if sores are persistent, unusually large, or accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it's essential to seek professional medical advice.
References
- National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI): Detailed overview of canker sores, their causes, and management strategies.
- Verywell Health: Insights into effective home remedies and preventive measures for canker sores.
