Canker sores oral
?What are Canker Sores?
Canker sores are small ulcers that appear inside the lips, on the cheeks, or the bottom of your gums. They are also referred to as aphthous ulcers, and are usually harmless. Canker sores are one of the most common types of oral sores, but they can be painful and can make it difficult to eat or talk.
Causes of Canker Sores
The exact cause of canker sores is unknown, but it’s believed to be a combination of factors including:
- Genetic predispositions, as they tend to be more common in some families.
- Stress, which can weaken the immune system.
- Allergens, such as certain foods.
- Injuries to the mouth, such as biting the cheek.
- Hormonal changes.
- Deficiencies of certain vitamins or minerals, such as iron, zinc, B vitamins, folic acid, and vitamin C.
Symptoms of Canker Sores
Canker sores generally occur in the mouth, and may be round or oval. They can range in size from small (around 1 millimeter) to big (3-4 millimeters). They may be yellow, white, or gray in color, and in some cases, they may even have a red border. Other symptoms include:
- A burning or tingling sensation before the sore appears.
- Pain and discomfort during eating and drinking, especially with acidic or spicy foods.
- Difficulty eating and talking.
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck.
- Fever or general discomfort.
Treatment
Canker sores generally heal on their own after about 10-14 days. To help reduce pain and discomfort, some home remedies include using a numbing mouth rinse, rinsing your mouth with warm salt water, and avoiding spicy and acidic foods. In addition, over-the-counter medications, such as topical analgesics and steroid creams, may be used to treat canker sores.
Prevention
Although it’s not always possible to prevent canker sores, there are some steps you can take to reduce your chances of getting them, including:
- Eating a balanced diet.
- Taking a daily multivitamin.
- Managing stress.
- Avoiding mouthwash with alcohol or hydrogen peroxide.
- Brushing and flossing your teeth regularly.
- Replacing your toothbrush frequently.
- Avoiding foods that irritate your mouth.