How To Treat Canker Sores

Canker Sores: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention

Introduction

Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, are small, painful ulcers that develop on the inside of the mouth. They are typically round or oval in shape and have a white or yellow center with a red border. Canker sores can be a nuisance, but they are usually not serious and will heal on their own within a few weeks.

Causes

The exact cause of canker sores is unknown, but several factors are thought to contribute to their development, including:

Immune system problems: People with weakened immune systems are more likely to develop canker sores.
Hormonal changes: Canker sores are common in women during their menstrual periods.
Stress: Stress can trigger canker sore outbreaks.
Certain foods: Some foods, such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, and chocolate, can trigger canker sores in some people.
Medications: Certain medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and antibiotics, can cause canker sores.
Injury to the mouth: Biting your cheek or tongue, or having dental work done, can cause canker sores.

Symptoms

Canker sores typically appear on the inside of the lips, cheeks, tongue, or gums. They are usually small, round or oval, and have a white or yellow center with a red border. Canker sores can be painful, especially when eating, drinking, or talking.

Treatment

Canker sores usually heal on their own within a few weeks. However, there are a number of things you can do to help relieve the pain and discomfort, including:

Over-the-counter medications: There are a number of over-the-counter medications that can help relieve the pain of canker sores. These medications include benzocaine, lidocaine, and hydrogen peroxide.
Prescription medications: If over-the-counter medications are not effective, your doctor may prescribe a stronger medication, such as a corticosteroid.
Home remedies: There are a number of home remedies that can help soothe the pain of canker sores, including:
- Salt water rinse: Gargling with salt water can help reduce inflammation and pain.
- Baking soda paste: Applying a paste made of baking soda and water to the canker sore can help neutralize the acid and reduce pain.
- Honey: Honey has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help heal canker sores.
- Aloe vera: Aloe vera gel can help soothe the pain and inflammation of canker sores.

Prevention

There is no sure way to prevent canker sores, but there are a number of things you can do to reduce your risk of developing them, including:

Avoid triggers: If you know what triggers your canker sores, avoid those triggers.
Practice good oral hygiene: Brush your teeth twice a day and floss once a day to remove plaque and bacteria from your mouth.
Eat a healthy diet: Eating a healthy diet can help boost your immune system and reduce your risk of developing canker sores.
Get enough sleep: Getting enough sleep can help reduce stress and improve your overall health, which can help reduce your risk of developing canker sores.

FAQs

What are canker sores?

Canker sores are small, painful ulcers that develop on the inside of the mouth. They are typically round or oval in shape and have a white or yellow center with a red border.

What causes canker sores?

The exact cause of canker sores is unknown, but several factors are thought to contribute to their development, including immune system problems, hormonal changes, stress, certain foods, medications, and injury to the mouth.

What are the symptoms of canker sores?

How are canker sores treated?

Canker sores usually heal on their own within a few weeks. However, there are a number of things you can do to help relieve the pain and discomfort, including: