Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, are painful, small lesions that develop inside your mouth. They can make eating and talking uncomfortable. While most canker sores heal on their own within a week or two, understanding their causes and triggers can help you reduce their frequency. This article explores the different types of canker sores, their symptoms, causes, risk factors, and prevention strategies.
Types of Canker Sores and Their Symptoms
Canker sores typically appear as round or oval sores with a white or yellow center and a red border. They can develop on the inside of your cheeks and lips, under your tongue, on your gums, or on your soft palate. A tingling or burning sensation often precedes the appearance of the sore. There are three main types:
Minor Canker Sores
These are the most common type. They are small, oval-shaped with a red border, and usually heal within one to two weeks without leaving scars.
Major Canker Sores
Less common than minor canker sores, these are larger and deeper. They are often round with defined borders but can have irregular edges. Major canker sores can be extremely painful and take up to six weeks to heal, sometimes leaving scars.
Herpetiform Canker Sores
While the name might suggest a connection to the herpes virus, herpetiform canker sores are not caused by herpes. They are uncommon, usually developing later in life. These sores are tiny, often appearing in clusters of 10 to 100, and can merge into one large ulcer. They typically heal within one to two weeks without scarring.
What Causes Canker Sores?
The exact cause of canker sores is unknown, but several factors may contribute to their development:
- Mouth Injuries: Minor injuries from dental work, aggressive brushing, accidental bites, or sports injuries can trigger canker sores.
- Irritants: Certain toothpastes and mouthwashes containing sodium lauryl sulfate can irritate the mouth and lead to canker sores.
- Food Sensitivities: Some people may be sensitive to certain foods, such as chocolate, coffee, strawberries, eggs, nuts, cheese, spicy foods, and acidic foods, which can trigger outbreaks.
- Nutritional Deficiencies: A diet lacking in vitamin B-12, zinc, folate, or iron may increase the risk of canker sores.
- Allergies: Allergic reactions to certain bacteria in the mouth can also contribute to canker sore formation.
- Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions like celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, Behcet’s disease, and immune system disorders can be associated with canker sores.
Risk Factors for Developing Canker Sores
While anyone can get canker sores, certain factors increase the risk:
- Age and Gender: Canker sores are more common in teenagers and young adults, and they affect females more often than males.
- Family History: A family history of canker sores suggests a possible genetic predisposition or shared environmental triggers.
Preventing Canker Sores
Although canker sores often recur, you can take steps to reduce their frequency:
- Avoid Trigger Foods: Identify and avoid foods that irritate your mouth.
- Maintain a Healthy Diet: Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to avoid nutritional deficiencies.
- Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush after meals and floss daily. Avoid toothpastes and mouthwashes containing sodium lauryl sulfate.
- Protect Your Mouth: Use orthodontic wax to cover sharp edges on braces or dental appliances.
- Manage Stress: Practice stress-reduction techniques like meditation or yoga if stress triggers your canker sores.
When to See a Doctor
Consult a doctor if you experience:
- Unusually large or painful canker sores
- Canker sores that last longer than two weeks
- Frequent outbreaks or new sores developing before old ones heal
- Difficulty eating or drinking due to pain
- Sores accompanied by a high fever
By understanding the causes, triggers, and preventive measures for canker sores, you can better manage this common oral health issue. While most canker sores are minor and heal on their own, seeking professional medical advice is important if you experience severe or persistent symptoms.
