Canker Sores: Causes, Symptoms, and How to Relieve the Discomfort

Canker sores are small lesions or ulcers that can appear inside the mouth, particularly on the tongue, cheeks, gums, or the inside of the lips. Although they are not contagious, they can cause severe pain and interfere with simple everyday activities, such as eating, talking, brushing your teeth, or even smiling.

In most cases, canker sores go away on their own after a few days. However, when they occur frequently, are very painful, or take a long time to heal, they may indicate an underlying condition that should be evaluated.

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What can cause canker sores?

Canker sores can develop for various reasons, which are not always easy to identify. Among the most common causes are minor injuries to the mouth, such as accidental biting, overly aggressive brushing, poorly fitting orthodontic appliances, or dentures that cause friction.

Stress and anxiety can also contribute to the development of these lesions, as they can disrupt the body's balance and make the oral mucosa more vulnerable.

In some cases, canker sores may be associated with nutritional deficiencies, particularly a lack of vitamin B12, iron, or folic acid. Hormonal changes, reactions to certain foods, or sensitivity to ingredients in some oral hygiene products may also be involved.

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Most Common Symptoms

Canker sores usually appear as small, round or oval lesions with a whitish or yellowish center and a reddish border. They can cause:

• Localized pain or burning sensation;
• Discomfort when eating or drinking;
• Sensitivity to acidic, spicy, or salty foods;
• Difficulty speaking or chewing;
• A sensation of inflammation in the affected area.

Although they are generally benign, they can be quite bothersome, especially when they appear in areas that come into frequent contact with food or teeth.

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How can you relieve the pain of canker sores?

During the healing period, it is important to avoid foods that may irritate the wound, such as citrus fruits, spicy foods, foods that are very salty, very hot, or acidic.

Oral hygiene should be maintained, but with care, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoiding trauma to the affected area. In some cases, topical gels or ointments specifically designed for canker sores may be recommended, as they help reduce pain and protect the sore while it heals.

Gentle mouthwashes with appropriate solutions can also help keep the area clean and reduce discomfort. When a nutritional deficiency is suspected, it may be necessary to evaluate and adjust the diet or use supplements, always under professional guidance.

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When should you seek help?

You should see a dentist if your canker sores occur very frequently, are very painful, grow larger, take more than two weeks to heal, or are accompanied by other symptoms.

At Avenida Dental Clinic, we assess oral health on an individual basis, identifying possible causes for the recurrent appearance of canker sores and recommending the most appropriate treatment. Small lesions may seem minor, but when they recur, they warrant attention.

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