Canker Sore

When you see a canker sore in your mouth, do not be surprised. This is the most common area for them to appear. Although a canker sore is nothing more than a small, shallow ulcer, it can cause massive discomfort, and make eating and speaking extremely uncomfortable.

There is more than one type of canker sore–simple and complex. A simple canker sore typically occurs in people between the ages of 10 and 20 years old, appears three to four times year and hangs out for about a week. Complex, on the other hand, are less common and tend to affect people who have had canker sores in the past.

Many people tend to confuse canker sores in the mouth with cold sores; they are not one in the same. Cold sores are known also as herpes simplex type 1, or fever blisters, and are contagious. They occur not only inside the mouth, but are most commonly seen outside the mouth, under the chin, around the lips and under the nose. Additionally, cold sores are a group of painful blisters. It is important you know the difference between the two so you can receive proper treatment.

If you have never had a canker sore before, you can easily identify it by its shape and location in the mouth. Most are oval or round with a red lining. Its center is usually white or yellow. They typically form on or under your tongue, making it difficult to eat. They may also appear on the inside of your cheeks or lips, or at the base of your gums.

In less severe cases you may experience a tingling or burning sensation prior to the appearance of the canker sores, usually two or three days before. In more severe cases, though, a fever may accompany the sores. You may also have a more difficult than normal time eating and drinking. In these instances you should call your doctor.

If you know some of the causes of canker sores in the mouth, you may have the ability to prevent them. Brushing your teeth too hard, eating spicy or acidic foods and using toothpastes or mouth rinses containing lauryl sulfate may increase your risk of canker sores. A diet low in essential vitamins and minerals such as B-12, folic acid, zinc and iron can cause them as well. Emotional stress and sensitivities to foods such as chocolate, strawberries, eggs, nuts and coffee can also cause canker sores in your mouth.

Canker sores are easily treated, although they do tend to recur approximately three to four times per year. One method is a topical paste you apply to each sore until it heals. This also helps relieve the pain. Mouth rinses are available to help relieve the pain and inflammation, and cut back on healing time.

You can take measures to prevent canker sores in your mouth in a variety of ways. First, eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables to ensure all your nutritional needs are met. Chew your food, then have a conversation. Doing both simultaneously can damage the inside of your cheeks, leaving them prey to these painful sores. Finally, find ways to reduce your stress. Use visualization, meditation or yoga–whatever works for you. Emotional balance might just make for a happier mouth.

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