Why do I Keep Getting Canker Sores in My Mouth

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1 Why Do I Keep Getting Canker Sores in My Mouth?

Why Do I Keep Getting Canker Sores in My Mouth?

Canker sores are small ulcers that usually appear inside the mouth and can be caused by various factors such as stress, hormonal changes, nutritional deficiencies, and certain types of foods.

Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, are small ulcers that appear inside the mouth, specifically inside the lip or cheek. They are typically white or yellow in color and often surrounded by red, inflamed tissue.

These painful sores are a common oral condition that affects nearly half of all people. There are three main types of canker sores:

Minor aphthous stomatitis, the most common type, are small ulcers that heal within a week.
Major aphthous stomatitis, a more severe type, are larger and more painful. They heal within two weeks and may leave scars.
Herpetiform aphthous stomatitis, which occurs in less than 5% of people with canker sores, is a cluster of tiny sores.

In many cases, canker sores heal on their own without treatment. However, they can sometimes indicate an underlying issue that may require medical attention.

Signs and Symptoms of Canker Sores

One of the most obvious signs of a canker sore is a small, painful yellow or white ulcer inside the lip or cheek, or occasionally on the gums. It’s important to differentiate between canker sores and cold sores, which appear on the outside of the mouth, typically around the lips. Canker sores are always found inside the lips or cheeks and are not contagious like cold sores.

Other signs and symptoms of canker sores include:

Tingling or Burning in the Mouth

You may experience a tingling or burning sensation in your mouth before the canker sore appears.

Fever

Some people may develop a fever when they have a canker sore. A high fever can indicate a more serious issue.

Fatigue

Feeling tired is a possible symptom of canker sores.

Swollen Lymph Nodes

Although less common, swollen lymph nodes may accompany a canker sore. If you experience this symptom, it’s advisable to schedule an appointment with your doctor.

Causes of Canker Sores

There are several potential causes of canker sores:

Stress

While the exact connection between stress and canker sores is not well-understood, studies suggest that increased stress levels can trigger their development.

Hormonal Changes

Changes in hormone levels can contribute to the occurrence of canker sores. Some women may notice that these ulcers appear in the few days before their menstrual period and disappear afterwards.

Nutritional Deficiencies

A lack of certain nutrients can lead to canker sores. Research shows that low levels of B vitamins and iron may increase the risk of developing these painful ulcers.

Certain Foods

Consuming acidic foods like lemons, limes, oranges, tomatoes, and strawberries, as well as being sensitive to foods such as chocolate, coffee, eggs, and spicy dishes, can sometimes trigger the formation of canker sores.

Ingredients in Toothpaste

Sodium lauryl sulfate, a common ingredient in toothpaste and mouthwash, has been associated with the development of canker sores. People who use oral care products containing this ingredient are more likely to experience these ulcers.

Mouth Injuries

Injuries to the soft tissues inside the mouth, such as brushing too hard, biting the cheek, or friction from braces or ill-fitting dentures, can sometimes lead to the formation of canker sores.

Autoimmune Diseases

Canker sores can be a side effect of certain autoimmune diseases. They are linked to various conditions.

Diagnosing Canker Sores

A visual examination is usually sufficient to diagnose canker sores. However, if your doctor suspects an underlying condition to be the cause, further tests may be necessary to determine the specific issue.

Treatments for Canker Sores

In many cases, canker sores will heal on their own without treatment. However, larger or more painful ulcers that persist for longer than two weeks may require medical intervention. Treatment options for these ulcers can include:

Over-the-counter or prescription topical medications, such as benzocaine or fluocinonide
Prescription mouthwashes
Oral medications
Nutritional supplements
Cauterization of the sore

If an underlying health condition is responsible for the canker sores, your doctor will recommend appropriate treatment for that issue.

QUESTION

Are Cold Sores and Canker Sores the Same?

Cold sores and canker sores are different conditions.

Cold sores are contagious and typically appear on the outside of the mouth, most commonly around the lips. They are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) and can be painful, with symptoms that may include headaches, swollen lymph nodes, muscle aches, and sore throat. They usually heal within 7 to 10 days.

In contrast, canker sores are not contagious and are usually found inside the mouth, specifically on the inside of the cheek or near the gums. They are small round ulcers that result from an autoimmune response and are often triggered by factors such as local injury, poor diet, food allergies, and vitamin deficiencies. Canker sores typically heal within 14 days.

Why do I Keep Getting Canker Sores in My Mouth