Canker Sore (Aphthous Ulcer): What It Is, Causes & Treatment

Overview

What are canker sores?

Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, are small, shallow lesions that develop on the soft tissues in your mouth or at the base of your gums. Unlike cold sores, canker sores don’t occur on the surface of your lips and aren’t contagious.

Are canker sores an STI?

No, canker sores are not a sexually transmitted infection (STI).

Canker sore vs. cold sore: Are they the same thing?

Canker sores and cold sores are not the same. Cold sores, caused by the herpes simplex virus, are contagious and usually appear on the lip’s surface. Canker sores occur inside the mouth and are not contagious.

Who gets canker sores?

Anyone can develop canker sores, but they are more common in women and people in their teens and early 20s.

How common is this condition?

Canker sores are quite common, affecting about 20% of the population at any given time.

Symptoms and Causes

What are the symptoms of canker sores?

Symptoms include a painful sore or sores inside your mouth, on your tongue, soft palate, or inside your cheeks. They are often round, white, or gray in color, with a red edge or border.

What causes canker sores?

The precise cause of canker sores is still unknown, but several factors are believed to contribute to outbreaks, including stress, minor injury to the inside of the mouth, acidic or spicy foods, vitamin deficiencies, hormonal changes, and immune system problems.

Are canker sores contagious?

No, canker sores are not contagious and cannot be spread through contact.

Diagnosis and Tests

How are canker sores diagnosed?

Most canker sores can be diagnosed based on their appearance. In some cases, if canker sores are complex or recurrent, your healthcare provider may perform other tests to rule out underlying health problems.

Management and Treatment

How do you heal a canker sore fast?

Treatment aims to reduce pain and speed up healing. Options include mouth rinses, topical products, oral medications, and cauterization of the sores. Reducing stress and avoiding foods that trigger outbreaks can also help manage symptoms.

How long do canker sores last?

Most canker sores heal without treatment in one to two weeks. However, large or exceptionally painful sores may need medical attention.

Prevention

Can I prevent canker sores?

While you might not be able to prevent canker sores entirely, you can reduce their frequency by avoiding foods that irritate your mouth, reducing stress, maintaining good oral hygiene, and eating a well-balanced diet to prevent vitamin deficiencies.

Outlook / Prognosis

What can I expect if I have a canker sore?

Most canker sores are harmless and resolve on their own. If you have a more severe case, medical treatments are available to help manage pain and promote healing.

Living With

When should I see my healthcare provider?

See your healthcare provider if canker sores are large, recurrent, or if healing doesn’t occur within two weeks.

What questions should I ask my healthcare provider?

• What’s the likely cause of my canker sores?
• Is there a need for tests?
• What treatment approach do you recommend?
• How can I prevent future outbreaks?

Nutritional Recommendations for Canker Sore Sufferers

What should I eat if I have canker sores?

A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help prevent vitamin deficiencies that may trigger canker sores. Specific nutrients such as vitamin B12, zinc, iron, and folic acid have been linked to lower rates of canker sores. Avoiding spicy, acidic, or hot foods can reduce irritation to existing sores and prevent new ones from forming. Drinking plenty of water and maintaining a balanced diet are key to minimizing outbreaks.

Alternative Treatments and Home Remedies

Are there natural treatments for canker sores?

Yes, several home remedies and natural treatments can help relieve pain and speed up the healing process. These include using a saltwater rinse, applying baking soda paste to the sore, and using milk of magnesia as a topical agent. Honey and coconut oil have antimicrobial properties and can be applied directly to the sore to fight infection and promote healing. Aloe vera gel, known for its soothing properties, can also be applied to the sore. Remember, while these remedies can provide relief, they should not replace treatments advised by healthcare professionals.

When to Seek Dental Emergency

What symptoms necessitate immediate medical attention?

If you experience an unusually high fever, difficulty swallowing or breathing, or if the sores spread to other parts of the body, seek medical help immediately. These could be signs of a more serious condition requiring prompt treatment.