Canker Sores
Most people experience canker sores at some point in their lives. These small, painful mouth ulcers can make eating, drinking, and even talking uncomfortable. At Erbsville Dental, we believe that understanding what canker sores are and how to treat them can help our patients manage flare-ups with less stress and discomfort.
What Are Canker Sores?
Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, are small, shallow lesions that develop inside the mouth. Unlike cold sores, which are caused by the herpes virus and appear on the outside of the lips, canker sores are not contagious. They typically appear on the inner cheeks, gums, tongue, or the roof of the mouth. These ulcers are usually round or oval with a white or yellow centre and a red border.
While most canker sores heal on their own within one to two weeks, the pain they cause can be frustrating and disruptive to daily life.
What Causes Canker Sores?
The exact cause of canker sores isn’t always clear, but several factors are known to trigger or worsen them:
- Minor injuries in the mouth – such as accidentally biting your cheek, braces rubbing against soft tissue, or irritation from dental work.
- Nutritional deficiencies – particularly a lack of iron, zinc, folic acid, or vitamin B12.
- Stress and fatigue – emotional stress or lack of rest can weaken your body’s defenses, making sores more likely.
- Certain foods – spicy, acidic, or citrus-based foods can trigger outbreaks in some people.
- Hormonal changes – many women report more frequent sores during certain times in their menstrual cycle.
- Medical conditions – gastrointestinal issues such as Crohn’s disease or celiac disease may be linked to recurring mouth ulcers.
How to Treat and Manage Canker Sores
While canker sores usually disappear on their own, there are ways to speed healing and reduce discomfort:
- Rinse with salt water or baking soda – this helps reduce bacteria and soothes irritation.
- Over-the-counter remedies – numbing gels, antimicrobial mouth rinses, or protective pastes can provide temporary relief.
- Avoid trigger foods – steer clear of acidic or spicy foods until the sore heals.
- Maintain good oral hygiene – gentle brushing and flossing keep bacteria under control without aggravating the sore.
- Ice chips or cold compresses – these can numb the pain and reduce swelling.
For severe, unusually large, or recurring canker sores, it’s important to consult a dentist. At Erbsville Dental, we can recommend prescription treatments or investigate whether an underlying health condition may be contributing to frequent outbreaks.
When to See a Dentist?
You should seek professional care if your canker sores last longer than three weeks, are unusually painful, or keep coming back. Frequent sores may point to a nutritional deficiency, immune system issue, or other medical concern that requires further attention.
At Erbsville Dental, our vision is simple: “We combine cutting-edge equipment with a traditional approach to dental care.” If you’re struggling with persistent canker sores, our team is here to help you find relief and identify possible causes. Book an appointment today and let us care for your smile with both advanced techniques and compassionate attention.
