Explain why do we get canker sores?

In short (click here for detailed version)

Canker sores can be caused by factors such as stress, mouth injuries, food allergies, and hormonal imbalances.

Explain why do we get canker sores?
In detail, for those interested!

Origin of canker sores

Canker sores are small painful ulcers that form inside the mouth, on the tongue, gums, cheeks or palate. Their origin is not fully understood, but several factors can contribute to their development.

Canker sores are believed to be partly linked to genetic factors, as some people seem to be more predisposed to suffer from them than others. Furthermore, studies have shown a connection with imbalances in the immune system, where the body mistakenly attacks mouth tissues, leading to the formation of canker sores.

Some allergens and irritants, such as acidic, spicy or very hot foods, can trigger the appearance of canker sores in sensitive individuals. Stress and fatigue can also play a role by weakening the immune system and increasing vulnerability to canker sores.

Nutritional deficiencies, especially in iron, folic acid, vitamin B12 and zinc, have also been associated with an increased risk of developing canker sores. Finally, some studies suggest that bacterial or viral infections, such as the herpes simplex virus, could contribute to the appearance of canker sores.

Although the exact origin of canker sores is not yet fully understood, it is likely that several factors interact to cause their formation.

Risk factors

Canker sores are painful lesions that can appear inside the mouth, such as on the cheeks, lips, tongue, or palate. Here are the main risk factors associated with the appearance of canker sores:

    icon-list bullet-bg bullet-soft-green mb-5 mt-2 fs-17">
  • Stress: Emotional stress can weaken the immune system and increase susceptibility to canker sores.
  • Oral injuries: Small injuries caused by a bad bite, a toothbrush that is too hard, or dental appliances can promote the appearance of canker sores.
  • Diet: Some acidic, spicy, or allergenic foods can trigger canker sores in sensitive individuals.
  • Nutritional deficiencies: A lack of certain nutrients such as vitamin B12, iron, folic acid, or zinc can increase the risk of developing canker sores.
  • Genetic factors: Family history of canker sores can increase the likelihood of suffering from them.
  • Smoking: Smoking can irritate the oral mucosa and increase the risk of canker sores.
  • Poor oral hygiene: Over-vigorous brushing, the use of irritating toothpastes, or inadequate oral hygiene can be risk factors.
  • Hormones: Certain hormonal changes, such as those related to the menstrual cycle in women, can contribute to the appearance of canker sores.

It is important to note that these risk factors can vary from person to person, and that the combination of several of them can increase the frequency of canker sores in some individuals.

Symptoms and complications

Canker sores are generally characterized by ulcerated lesions inside the mouth. These lesions are often small in size, measuring less than a centimeter in diameter. They can appear on the tongue, gums, cheeks, and even on the palate. The most common symptoms of canker sores include intense pain, a burning sensation, and local irritability.

In addition to physical pain, canker sores can lead to complications when associated with underlying diseases such as Behçet's disease or celiac disease. Canker sores can also make eating difficult due to the pain they cause during chewing or swallowing.

The most common complications of canker sores include eating difficulties, discomfort when speaking, decreased appetite, and a decrease in quality of life. In some cases, canker sores can become infected, leading to additional symptoms such as fever and swollen lymph nodes.

It is important to consult a healthcare professional if canker sore symptoms persist for more than two weeks or worsen despite appropriate treatment.

Treatment of canker sores

The treatment of canker sores aims primarily to relieve pain and speed up healing. Here are some general recommendations to relieve canker sores:

1. Rinse with solutions: rinsing the mouth with antiseptic solutions or baking soda solutions can help reduce inflammation and prevent infections.

2. Use of topical medications: applying gels, ointments, or sprays containing local analgesics, corticosteroids, or protective substances can help reduce pain and promote healing.

3. Avoid irritating foods: it is recommended to avoid spicy, acidic, or hard foods that can irritate canker sores and prolong their healing.

4. Maintain good oral hygiene: brushing teeth gently with a soft toothbrush and using a gentle toothpaste can promote healing of canker sores by reducing irritation.

5. Avoid triggers: identifying and avoiding triggers such as stress, food allergies, or vitamin deficiencies can help prevent the recurrence of canker sores.

6. Medical consultation: in case of persistent canker sores, large size, frequent occurrence, or associated with other symptoms, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for a precise diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

It is important to note that each person may react differently to canker sore treatments, and it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for personalized recommendations.

Did you know?

Good to know

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1

What are the triggering factors of canker sores?

Canker sores can be triggered by factors such as stress, poor oral hygiene, allergic reactions, or nutritional deficiencies.

2

Are canker sores contagious?

No, canker sores are not contagious and cannot be transmitted from one person to another.

3

How to relieve the pain caused by mouth ulcers?

To relieve canker sore pain, soothing mouthwashes, local analgesics or natural remedies such as baking soda applied directly can be used.

4

Can canker sores be linked to certain diseases?

Yes, in some cases, canker sores can be associated with autoimmune diseases such as lupus or Behçet's disease.

5

How to prevent the appearance of canker sores?

To prevent canker sores, it is recommended to adopt good oral hygiene, avoid irritating foods, reduce stress, and maintain a balanced diet.

6

Do canker sores disappear on their own?

In general, canker sores disappear on their own within one to two weeks. However, treatments can be used to relieve pain and speed up healing.

Health and Wellness

No one has answered this quiz yet, be the first!' :-)

Quizz

Question 1/5

April 21, 2025 : We have reached 240M+ (millions) GIFs viewed on Giphy (check here!). Use our GIFs on WhatsApp or elsewhere. We are gradually offering them on Tenor. This may take a little time.