How to Treat Them Canker Soars and what Causes Them

Canker sores also known as aphthous ulcers are small, painful ulcers that form inside the mouth. While they’re usually harmless and not contagious, they can make eating, drinking, and even talking uncomfortable.

What Are Canker Sores?

Canker sores are shallow, round or oval ulcers that appear on the soft tissues inside your mouth. Inside the cheeks, the lips, on the tongue, or at the base of the gums.

They usually have, a white or yellow center, a red border and a Mild to severe tenderness

Unlike cold sores, which are caused by the herpes virus and appear outside the mouth, canker sores are not contagious and stay inside the mouth.

Types of Canker Sores

There are three main types:

1. Minor Canker Sores

• Most common type
• Small (less than 1 cm)
• Heal within 1–2 weeks
• Usually don’t leave scars
  

2. Major Canker Sores

• Larger and deeper
• Extremely painful
• Can take several weeks to heal
• May leave scars
  

3. Herpetiform Canker Sores

• Appear as clusters of tiny ulcers
• Can merge into larger sores
• Not related to herpes despite the name
  

What Causes Canker Sores?

The exact cause isn’t always clear, but several triggers are linked to outbreaks:

• Minor mouth injuries (biting your cheek, dental work)
• Stress and lack of sleep
• Hormonal change
• Food sensitivities (acidic or spicy foods)
• Nutritional deficiencies (B12, iron, folate)
• Weakened immune system
• Certain toothpaste containing sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS)
  

In some cases, frequent or severe canker sores may be associated with conditions like Celiac disease or Crohn’s disease.

Symptoms

Common symptoms include:

• Tingling or burning sensation before the sore appears
• Pain when eating or drinking
• Localized swelling
• Difficulty speaking (if large or multiple sores)
  

Severe cases may also involve:

• Fever
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Extreme fatigue
  

If symptoms are severe or persistent, medical evaluation is recommended.

How to Treat Canker Sores

Most canker sores heal on their own. However, you can reduce pain and speed healing with:

1. Over-the-Counter Treatments

• Topical numbing gels (benzocaine)
• Protective pastes
• Antimicrobial mouth rinses
  

2. Home Remedies

• Saltwater rinse
• Baking soda rinse
  
• Ice for pain relief
  

3. Prescription Treatments (For Severe Cases)

• Corticosteroid mouth rinses
• Oral medications
• Nutritional supplements (if deficiency is present)
  

How to Prevent Canker Sores

While you can’t always prevent them, you can reduce your risk:

• Avoid trigger foods
• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush
• Switch to SLS-free toothpaste
• Manage stress levels
• Maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals

Seek medical care if:

• Sores last longer than 2–3 weeks
• You experience frequent outbreaks
• The pain is severe and unmanageable
• Sores are unusually large
• You have difficulty eating or drinking
  

Canker sores are common and usually harmless, but they can be frustrating. Understanding your triggers and practicing good oral care can significantly reduce outbreaks. If sores are persistent or severe, consulting a healthcare professional can help identify any underlying conditions and provide more effective treatment options.

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