Canker Sores: Prevention, Causes, and Treatment
Unlike cold sores, canker sores don’t occur on the surface of your lips and they aren’t contagious.
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. They can be painful and can make eating and talking uncomfortable. Here’s an overview of the causes, prevention, and treatment options for canker sores.
What Causes Canker Sores?
The exact cause of canker sores remains unclear, though researchers believe a combination of factors contributes to outbreaks, even in the same individual. Possible causes include:
- Minor oral injury: From dental work, hard brushing, sports accidents, or accidental cheek bites.
- Food sensitivity: Acidic and spicy foods, including citrus and tomatoes, can trigger or worsen canker sores.
- Nutritional deficiencies: Lack of vitamin B-12, zinc, folate (folic acid), or iron.
- Dental products: Toothpastes and mouth rinses containing sodium lauryl sulfate.
- Stress or hormonal changes: Often related to menstrual cycles or emotional stress.
- Certain medical conditions: Celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, and HIV/AIDS, which involve immune system dysfunction, may cause a higher occurrence of canker sores.
How to Prevent Canker Sores
While canker sores can be unpredictable, you can reduce their frequency by following these tips:
- Practice good oral hygiene: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush after meals and floss daily to keep your mouth free of foods that might trigger a sore.
- Avoid irritating foods: Stay away from foods that are spicy, acidic, or that you’re sensitive to.
- Protect your mouth: If you have braces or other dental appliances, ask your dentist about orthodontic waxes to cover edges.
- Watch your diet: Ensure you’re getting enough vitamins, especially B-12, zinc, folate, and iron.
- Manage stress: Try stress-reduction techniques such as exercise, meditation, or deep-breathing exercises.
Treatment Options for Canker Sores
Most canker sores are minor and tend to heal on their own within one to two weeks. However, for pain relief or to speed up healing, you can consider the following treatments:
- Over-the-counter topical products: Products that numb the area, such as benzocaine, can provide temporary relief.
- Mouth rinses: Using a mouth rinse containing a steroid to reduce pain and swelling or one with an antiseptic to reduce irritation.
- Oral medications: In severe cases, your doctor might prescribe an oral medication to reduce inflammation and pain.
- Nutritional supplements: If your diet lacks essential nutrients, your doctor might recommend a nutritional supplement.
- Home remedies: Rinsing your mouth with salt water or baking soda rinse can help to soothe and heal canker sores.
Your Path to Relief: Seek Professional Advice
If you frequently experience canker sores or if the sores are large, painful, or don’t heal within two weeks, consult your dentist or doctor. Persistent, severe, or unusually large sores can sometimes indicate an underlying condition that requires medical treatment.
By understanding what triggers your canker sores and how to treat them, you can not only alleviate the discomfort they cause but also potentially reduce their recurrence. Remember, maintaining good oral hygiene and a balanced diet is key to preventing not only canker sores but also other oral health issues.