Canker Sores: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention

Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, are small, shallow open wounds that develop inside the mouth. These painful sores can make eating and talking uncomfortable, but they are usually not serious. In this article, we'll explore the causes, symptoms, treatment options, and prevention tips for canker sores.

Types of Canker Sores

There are three main types of canker sores:

• Minor canker sores: These are the most common type, typically affecting people between the ages of 10 and 20. They are less than 1 centimeter in diameter and usually heal within a week without scarring.

• Major canker sores: These are less common and larger than minor canker sores. They can last for more than two weeks and often heal with scarring.

• Herpetiform canker sores: These are rare and appear as clusters of tiny ulcers. They usually heal within a week.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of most canker sores is unknown, but several factors may trigger their development, including:

• Stress

• Tissue injury from a sharp tooth or dental appliance

• Certain foods, such as citrus fruits, acidic vegetables, and spicy foods

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen

• Allergies to food or oral care products

• Helicobacter pylori, a bacteria that can cause peptic ulcers

• Underlying health conditions, such as a weakened immune system, HIV/AIDS, lupus, or Behcet's disease

• Nutritional deficiencies in vitamin B12, zinc, folic acid, or iron

• Gastrointestinal diseases like celiac or Crohn's disease

Canker sores are more common in women, possibly due to hormonal differences, and may run in families.

Symptoms of Canker Sores

Common symptoms of canker sores include:

• A tingling or burning sensation 6 to 24 hours before the sore appears

• Small, round, or oval sores that are white, gray, or pale yellow with a red edge

• Painful sores that appear alone or in clusters inside the mouth

In severe cases, canker sores may also cause fever, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Canker sores usually don't require medical attention and heal on their own within a week or two. However, if you experience unusually large, spreading, or long-lasting sores, extreme pain, difficulty drinking fluids, or a high fever, consult your dentist or doctor. They can diagnose canker sores based on a physical exam and medical history, and may order blood tests to rule out underlying health conditions.

Treatment options for severe or persistent canker sores may include:

• Prescription mouthwashes containing steroids or painkillers

• Topical medications with steroids or analgesics like lidocaine

• Oral medications such as sucralfate (Carafate) or colchicine (Mitigare)

• Nutritional supplements to address deficiencies

• Cautery using dental lasers or chemicals like debacterol or silver nitrate

Home Remedies and Prevention

To speed up healing and find relief from canker sores, try these home remedies:

• Apply medicated gels, creams, pastes, or liquids directly to the sore

• Rinse your mouth with a mixture of salt or baking soda and warm water

• Dab milk of magnesia on the sore using a cotton swab

While there is no cure for canker sores, you can reduce their frequency by:

• Avoiding trigger foods like citrus fruits, acidic vegetables, and spicy dishes

• Not chewing gum

• Brushing your teeth with a soft-bristled brush after meals and flossing daily

By understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for canker sores, you can better manage these painful mouth ulcers and know when to seek medical help. Implementing prevention strategies may also help reduce the frequency of canker sore outbreaks. If you have concerns about persistent or severe canker sores, consult your dentist or healthcare provider for personalized advice and treatment.