Canker Sores

Canker Sores (Apthous Ulcers)

These are not the sores that develop on the lips and they are not contagious, like fever blisters or cold sores. But they are common sores and they can be painful.

Canker sores will go away on their own in a week or two, but you should contact your doctor or dentist if they are unusually large, recurring or persistent.

Possible triggers for canker sores include:

·                     A minor injury to your mouth from dental work, overzealous brushing, sports mishaps, spicy or acidic foods, or an accidental cheek bite

·                     Toothpastes and mouth rinses containing sodium lauryl sulfate

·                     Food sensitivities, particularly to chocolate, coffee, strawberries, eggs, nuts, cheese and highly acidic foods, such as pineapple

·                     A diet lacking in vitamin B-12, zinc, folate (folic acid) or iron

·                     Helicobacter pylori, the same bacteria that cause peptic ulcers

·                     Hormonal shifts during menstruation

·                     Emotional stress

Unlike cold sores, canker sores are not associated with herpes virus infections.

Treatment usually isn't necessary for minor canker sores, but options may include:

·                     Mouth rinses. If you have several canker sores, your doctor may prescribe a mouth rinse containing a steroid to reduce pain and inflammation.

·                     Oral medications. Your doctor may prescribe oral steroid medications when severe canker sores don't respond to other treatments.

·                     Cautery of sores. This medication may reduce healing time to about a week.