An aphthous ulcer is a medical term given to a shallow ulcerative lesion that forms in the mouth that we call a canker sore. They appear as yellow or white small lesions with red tissue surrounding them. They result in soreness and make talking, biting and chewing more difficult. They typically last for 5-10 days before healing. In terms of size, they are usually around 1-2mm but can get as large as an inch in severe cases. Tanker sores can be simple or complex. Simple canker sores appear 1-4 times yearly and don’t last very long. Complex canker sores affect an individual more frequently, but this is less common.
Cause of Canker Sores
Simply put, we don’t have a good answer. It’s hard to know what causes a canker sore, as there are many variables and possible causes. Simple canker sores are often caused by stress or mouth injury, such as a sharp tooth or braces that rub against tissue. Simple canker sores can also be caused by acidic or spicy foods or even some medications.
Complex canker sores are likely related to general health and health conditions, particularly auto-immune disorders such as lupus, Crohn’s disease, inflammatory bowel disease and HIV. They can also be related to vitamin deficiencies such as b12, iron, zinc or folic acid.
Signs & Symptoms of Canker Sores
- Painful sore on any soft tissue of the mouth (tongue, cheeks, gums, soft palate)
- Tingling or burning sensation in the area before a sore appears
- Small white or yellow lesions with red, inflamed borders
- In more severe cases, canker sores may be associated with fever, swollen lymph nodes and a general unwell feeling
Treatment of Canker Sores
Most of the time, a canker sore will go away on its own in 1-2 weeks without any treatment. Topical medications can be purchased over the counter to help with the symptoms and healing. An antibacterial mouthwash or a topical corticosteroid treatment may be prescribed for complex canker sores to help prevent reinfection.
Prevention of Canker Sores
- Reduce any acidic or spicy food consumption. This can be done by tracking what particular foods tend to cause canker sores.
- Maintaining adequate brushing and flossing.
- Eliminating any oral hygiene product containing sodium lauryl sulphate.
- Addressing any sharp or jagged areas that are irritating the tissues
Be sure to check in with your doctor or dentist if you have a large sore that doesn’t heal after two weeks, if sores are spreading, if sores are reoccurring or if there is a fever associated with a sore. We encourage you to contact us today if you have questions about canker sores.