About Canker Sores
Canker sores (alphthous ulcers) are small ulcers that are usually found in the lining of the mouth, the tongue, the lips, the base of gums as well as the cheeks. They start forming as small round or oval red swellings, and within about a day they burst. They generally heal within one or two weeks and leave no scars.
Causes
The causes of canker sores (alphthous ulcers) are not known for sure, but it has been said that there is likely to be more than just one cause. One theory is that these sores can arise as a result of the body’s failure to regulate normal cells that are found in the mouth. One of the more easily understandable causes is trauma to the mouth, which may include brushing with toothbrushes that are too hard, wearing metal braces and eating hot foods. Emotional stress has also been suggested to cause canker sores.
Some studies have even linked the condition to certain nutritional deficiencies like folate, vitamin B12 and iron. With some people these sores represent a problem with the entire gastrointestinal tract. Hormonal changes have been identified to have some sort of link. It has been described that some women have canker sores at certain times during their menstrual cycle, and that women who have had recurrent sores stop having them during pregnancy.
Treatment
Canker sores (alphthous ulcers) generally heal without any medical intervention, but there are things available that can speed up healing and reduce the amount of pain and discomfort. These come in the forms of medicated mouthwashes and well as topical ointment. The ointment or gel is generally to numb the area or to reduce the inflammation. If it is very severe there is oral medication available.
Things to do to avoid getting them
There are a few things you should avoid to help the current sore heal more quickly and help prevent another from forming. Avoid hard or crispy foods that can further damage your gums and cheeks. This includes things like potato chips and hard candy. Also try to stay away from foods that are spicy and very acidic, and drink plenty of water. When brushing your teeth try to be gentle and avoid stabbing your gums and cheeks with the brush. Avoid using toothpaste that contains sodium lauryl sulfate, as it has been implicated in causing damage to the lining of the mouth. Changing these few things will reduce your chances of recurrence.
If you suffer from canker sores regularly
If you have been suffering with these sores for a long time and have tried everything on the market and made the necessary food changes then it is time to visit the doctor. Most of these sores are not an indication of some underlying condition but there are times that they are. The can indicate things like Crohn’s disease, lupus, or celiac disease. This may also prompt your doctor to send you for further tests to see whether your sores are being caused by an allergy or a nutritional deficiency.
