Canker sores are a common but painful irritation. Usually the day before a canker sore fully develops you can begin to feel it forming. But why do canker sores form? And is there any way to prevent them? Let’t dive into it!
What is a Canker Sore?
Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, are painful but shallow lesions inside your mouth. They are commonly white or yellow-tinged and have a crater-like shape. The outside rim is red and inflamed. Canker sores are incredibly sensitive to acidic foods. Most canker sores are minor and shallow and will heal on their own in 7-14 days. Some may be deeper and take up to 6 weeks to completely heal. If you’re concerned about the size or duration of your canker sore, call your dentist for advice. They can form on your gums or lips, or under your tongue. The pain can make eating difficult and painful.
Causes of Canker Sores
Contrary to popular belief, canker sores are not a result of herpes virus. (Although a similar issue: cold sores is linked.) Many different factors can combine to increase the chance of a canker sore forming. Here are some known triggers that are likely to cause a canker sore:
Additionally, sometimes canker sores are the result of an underlying condition or disease such as:
It’s more common for young adults, teens, and women to have canker sores. Additionally, a propensity for developing canker sores often runs in families. Studies have not made clear whether genetics or environment is more likely the cause for this correlation.
Prevention Tips
The best way to reduce the risk of developing these painful sores is to avoid common triggers.
Treatments
Unfortunately, the best cure for a canker sore is just time. If the pain is unbearable, you can rinse with lukewarm water with salt or baking soda t o rinse the wound. Drink plenty of water to help remove irritants and heal the wound faster. Some studies have found adhesive tablets with time-released medication to be an effective cure. Additionally, you can apply an oral anesthetic such as Orajel, Orabase, or Vanos to help numb the area.
Although painful, canker sores are common and should not concern you. Still have questions about your canker sore? Give our office a call at(833) 220-2448! We’d love to help!
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