Canker Sores – A Common and Troublesome Condition

Canker sores (aphthous ulcers) are a common oral condition with a high prevalence, often causing significant discomfort in daily life. When they appear, they can feel like an unexpected storm, disrupting your comfort and well-being.

Once they develop, canker sores tend to recur periodically in specific locations, making them a persistent nuisance. The pain can feel like a burning flame inside the mouth or a freezing blade cutting into the tongue. Every time you touch the sore, chew food, or swallow saliva, the pain can be excruciating. Canker sores don’t just affect eating and daily conversations; they can also make sleeping difficult.

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What Causes Canker Sores? – 6 Potential Triggers

1. Genetic Factors

• Canker sores tend to run in families, meaning some people may be genetically predisposed to them.

2. Weakened Immune System

• When the body is fatigued, overly stressed, or dealing with an illness, the immune system weakens, increasing the risk of developing canker sores.

3. Infections

• Bacteria or viruses can attack the oral mucosa, leading to ulceration and the formation of canker sores.

4. Oral Mucosal Injuries

• Brushing too aggressively, accidentally biting the tongue or inner cheek, or wearing ill-fitting dentures can damage the oral lining, causing ulcers.

5. Digestive Disorders

• Some gastrointestinal diseases such as stomach ulcers and duodenal ulcers can affect oral health and increase susceptibility to canker sores.

6. Other Contributing Factors

• Allergies, medication side effects, hormonal imbalances, and nutritional deficiencies (especially vitamin B, vitamin C, iron, and zinc deficiency) can also trigger canker sores.

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How to Relieve and Heal Canker Sores?

1. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

✔️ Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush gently.
✔️ Rinse with salt water or antiseptic mouthwash to prevent bacterial growth.

2. Adjust Your Diet

❌ Avoid spicy, acidic, salty, or hard foods that can aggravate the ulcers.
✅ Choose soft, easy-to-digest foods with mild flavors to reduce irritation.

3. Use Topical Medications or Canker Sore Patches

✔️ Medicated patches help relieve pain and create a protective layer to prevent further irritation.

4. Take Pain Relievers If Necessary

✔️ If the pain is too intense, over-the-counter pain relievers like Ibuprofen or Paracetamol can be used under medical guidance.

5. Supplement Essential Vitamins and Minerals

✔️ Vitamin B, Vitamin C, iron, and zinc deficiencies can contribute to canker sores. Ensure adequate intake through diet or supplements if necessary.

6. Avoid Oral Trauma

✔️ Use properly fitted dentures and avoid hard-bristled toothbrushes.
✔️ Be mindful to prevent accidental biting of the lips or tongue.

7. Manage Stress and Get Enough Rest

✔️ Stress and anxiety can worsen canker sores. Maintain a relaxed mindset, get enough sleep, and practice stress-relief techniques to aid faster healing.

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When Should You See a Doctor?

🚨 Seek medical attention if:

• The ulcer lasts more than two weeks without healing.
• Canker sores recur frequently and worsen over time.
• You experience high fever, swollen lymph nodes, widespread ulceration, bleeding, or severe pain.

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🔥 Conclusion
Canker sores are not just caused by "internal heat" but can stem from various factors, including genetics, immunity issues, oral trauma, digestive disorders, and nutritional deficiencies. To minimize the risk, maintain proper oral hygiene, eat a balanced diet, supplement essential nutrients, and manage stress effectively. If canker sores persist or become severe, consult a doctor for proper evaluation and treatment. 💪✨