Canker Sores: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

What are the symptoms of canker sores?

Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, are small, shallow lesions that develop on the soft tissues inside the mouth or at the base of the gums. The symptoms of canker sores can vary but often include:

1. Pain or discomfort: Canker sores can be painful, especially when talking, eating, or drinking.
2. Round or oval sores: The sores are usually round or oval with a white or yellow center and a red border.
3. Burning or tingling sensation: Some people may experience a burning or tingling sensation a day or two before the sore appears.
4. Difficulty eating or drinking: The pain from canker sores can make it difficult to eat or drink, especially if the sores are large or located in a sensitive area.
5. Swelling: The area around the canker sore may become swollen.
6. Minor bleeding: In some cases, canker sores may bleed slightly when irritated, such as during brushing teeth.
7. Multiple sores: Some people may develop multiple canker sores at the same time.

Canker sores are not contagious and usually heal on their own within one to two weeks. However, if you have large, persistent, or unusually painful sores, or if they are accompanied by fever, seek medical attention as they could be a sign of an underlying condition.

What are the causes of canker sores?

The exact cause of canker sores is not well understood, but several factors may contribute to their development:

1. Minor injury: Accidental biting of the inside of the cheek or lip, aggressive tooth brushing, or dental work can trigger the formation of canker sores.
2. Food sensitivities: Certain foods, such as acidic fruits and vegetables, spicy foods, and chocolate, may trigger or worsen canker sores in some people.
3. Nutritional deficiencies: Lack of essential nutrients like vitamin B12, zinc, folic acid, or iron may contribute to the development of canker sores.
4. Immune system reactions: Some researchers believe that canker sores may be the result of an abnormal immune response, where the immune system mistakenly attacks the cells in the mouth.
5. Hormonal changes: Hormonal shifts, such as those that occur during menstruation, can increase the likelihood of developing canker sores.
6. Stress: Emotional stress or fatigue can weaken the immune system and increase susceptibility to canker sores.
7. Underlying health conditions: Certain underlying health conditions, such as celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, or a weakened immune system, may increase the risk of developing canker sores.
8. Genetics: There may be a genetic predisposition to developing canker sores, as they often run in families.

It’s important to note that canker sores are not contagious and are different from cold sores, which are caused by the herpes simplex virus. Canker sores typically heal on their own within one to two weeks, but if they are large, persistent, or recurrent, or if they are accompanied by other symptoms, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.

What is the treatment for canker sores?

Treatment for canker sores is usually aimed at relieving pain and speeding up the healing process. Most canker sores will heal on their own within one to two weeks without treatment. However, if they are particularly painful or interfere with eating and drinking, some treatments can help manage symptoms:

1. Over-the-counter topical treatments: These include creams, gels, or patches that can be applied directly to the sore to help reduce pain and promote healing. Examples include benzocaine (Anbesol), hydrogen peroxide, and corticosteroid ointments.
2. Topical antimicrobial mouth rinses: These can help reduce the risk of infection and promote healing. Examples include mouthwashes containing chlorhexidine gluconate.
3. Oral pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help reduce pain and inflammation.
4. Avoiding irritants: Avoiding spicy, acidic, or rough foods that can irritate the sore can help prevent further discomfort.
5. Maintaining good oral hygiene: Brushing gently with a soft-bristled brush and using a mild, non-irritating toothpaste can help keep the area clean and reduce irritation.
6. Stress reduction: Managing stress through techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises may help reduce the frequency or severity of canker sores in some people.
7. Dietary supplements: Some studies suggest that certain dietary supplements, such as vitamin B12, zinc, or lysine, may help reduce the frequency or severity of canker sores in some individuals, especially those with nutritional deficiencies.

It’s important to note that if canker sores are severe, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare provider. In some cases, prescription medications or other treatments may be necessary to manage the sores and underlying causes.

What is a good diet for canker sores?

A diet for canker sores focuses on reducing irritation to the mouth and promoting healing. While there’s no specific diet that will cure canker sores, certain foods and dietary practices may help alleviate symptoms and prevent further irritation:

1. Soft, bland foods: Eating soft, bland foods can help reduce irritation to the mouth. Examples include yogurt, applesauce, mashed potatoes, oatmeal, and smoothies.
2. Avoid acidic and spicy foods: Acidic and spicy foods can irritate canker sores and worsen symptoms. Avoid foods like citrus fruits, tomatoes, and spicy sauces.
3. Avoid rough or crunchy foods: Foods that are rough or crunchy, such as chips, nuts, and toast, can aggravate canker sores. Opt for softer alternatives.
4. Avoid foods that may cause allergic reactions: If you suspect certain foods may be triggering your canker sores, try eliminating them from your diet to see if symptoms improve.
5. Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help keep the mouth moist and prevent further irritation.
6. Eat a balanced diet: A diet rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin B12, zinc, folic acid, and iron, may help promote healing and reduce the frequency of canker sores. Foods high in these nutrients include lean meats, fish, poultry, dairy products, eggs, legumes, nuts, seeds, and leafy green vegetables.
7. Limit sugar intake: High sugar intake can contribute to inflammation and may worsen canker sore symptoms. Try to limit your consumption of sugary foods and beverages.
8. Avoid tobacco and alcohol: Tobacco and alcohol can irritate the mouth and may worsen canker sore symptoms. Avoiding or limiting these substances may help reduce irritation.

It’s important to note that individual triggers for canker sores can vary, so it may be helpful to keep a food diary to identify any specific foods that seem to worsen your symptoms. If you have frequent or severe canker sores, consider consulting a healthcare provider or a dietitian for personalized dietary advice.