Canker sores are also known as aphthous ulcers. They are small and shallow lesions that are developed in the mouth or at the base of your gums causing pain and difficulty in talking eating. The major cause of canker sores may include minor injury in mouth due to dental work, toothpastes mouth rinses containing sodium lauryl sulfate, food sensitive, allergic to certain bacteria in mouth, emotional stress, hormonal shifts during menstruation and diet lacking vitamin B12, zinc, folic acid or iron. Female are more prone to canker sores compared to male and people with family history may be at high risk for canker sores.
Some of the symptoms of canker sores:
Minor canker sores:-
- Small in size
- Oval shaped
- May be healed within a week or two
Major canker sores:-
- Large in size
- Have irregular edges
- May take over 6 weeks to heal and may leave extensive scarring
- Herpetiform canker sores:-
- Pinpoint size
- occur in clusters
- Irregular edges
- Heal without scarring in a week or two
When should you consult a doctor?
Consult a doctor if you have signs of large canker sores that are persistent for over 3 weeks or recurring sores. You may also have a high fever associated with sores and extreme difficulty in eating or drinking.
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