Overview
Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, are common painful lesions that develop on the soft tissues inside your mouth or at the base of your gums. Unlike cold sores, which are caused by herpes simplex viruses, canker sores are not contagious. These small, shallow ulcers can be irritating and make eating and talking uncomfortable. Let’s delve into the details of canker sores, including their types, causes, symptoms, prevention, and management.
Types of Canker Sores
- Minor Canker Sores (Simple Canker Sores):
- Account for approximately 80% of cases.
- Typically small (between 1/3 inch and 1/2 inch).
- Often heal within two weeks.
- Triggered by factors like minor mouth injuries, stress, or spicy foods.
- Major Canker Sores (Complex Canker Sores):
- Larger than 1/2 inch and may last up to six weeks.
- Irregular, oddly-shaped borders.
- Chronic and lifelong condition in some cases.
- Possible causes include vitamin deficiencies, chemotherapy, and viral infections.
- Herpetiform Canker Sores:
- Cluster of several tiny lesions that converge to form one large sore.
- Uncommon (affects about 5% of people with canker sores).
- May merge together and form clusters.
- Not related to herpes viruses.
Causes of Canker Sores
The exact cause of canker sores remains unknown.
Risk Factors of Canker Sores
several triggers may contribute:
- Stress or anxiety
- Menstrual cycle changes
- Accidental cheek or lip bites
- Braces on teeth
- Food allergies
- Acidic foods or juices (e.g., orange juice)
- Deficiencies in iron, vitamin B12, or folic acid
Symptoms of Canker Sores
Common symptoms of canker sores include:1. Painful ulcers inside the mouth
2. Red border with a white or yellow center
3. Shallow at the center
4. Burning or tingling sensation
5. Fever
Preventions of Canker Sores
While complete prevention is challenging, consider the following steps to reduce the risk of canker sores:
- Avoid spicy, salty, or acidic foods
- Practice relaxation techniques to manage stress
- Maintain good oral hygiene
- Use a soft toothbrush
- Get tested for vitamin deficiencies and take supplements if necessary
Diagnosis of Canker Sores
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Visual Examination:
- Tests aren’t needed to diagnose canker sores.
- Your healthcare provider can identify them visually during an examination.
- Most canker sores are round or oval with a white or yellow center and a red border.
- They form inside your mouth, such as on or under your tongue, inside your cheeks or lips, at the base of your gums, or on your soft palate.
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Additional Tests:
- In some cases, if canker sores are severe and ongoing, your healthcare provider may recommend tests to rule out other health problems.
- These tests may include:
- Complete blood count (CBC): To check for infection, indicated by increased white blood cell count.
- Nutrient deficiency test: To assess vitamin and mineral deficiencies.
Treatment for Canker Sores
- Most canker sores heal on their own within a couple of days.
- For painful sores lasting over a week, use mouth rinses or vitamin B12 tablets.
- Topical products (e.g., benzocaine, fluocinonide) can reduce pain and promote faster healing.
- Nutritional supplements (e.g., folic acid, vitamin B6, zinc) aid in healing.
When to seek medical attention ?
Seek medical attention if:
- Sores fail to heal after 14 days
- Symptoms interfere with daily life
- Unusually large sores develop
