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Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, are among the most common causes of painful sores in the mouth. They occur on the mucous membranes inside the mouth. Unless it is a recurrent problem, no treatment is really needed. It occurs mostly among people in adolescence and youth especially in whites and non smokers. They become less frequent as one gets older and are not contagious. Canker sores are classified into three based on their size i.e. minor sores which last for about 7- 10 days, major sores which lasts for about 10-30 days and herpetiform ulcers that lasts for 7-10 days. About 80% of people are affected by minor sores, 10% for major sores and 10% for the herpetiform sores.
The precise answer to what causes canker sores is still unknown for the experts. But it is proved that women suffer from canker sores more often than men. Certain types of bacteria or viruses are responsible for the painful canker sores. Accidental biting inside the cheek or lips are certain canker sore causes. Similarly, intake of hot food or drinks may burn the mouth and cause canker sore, spicy or acidic food creates burns in mouth which creates canker sore, the use of chewing tobacco causes canker sores due to the harmful chemicals in it, complete or partial fitting of dentures in the area of the mouth where it may rub on the tissue, orthodontic brackets, bands and other attachments will cause canker sores due to the constant friction on the tissues.
What causes canker sores other than the few already mentioned? Allergies to nickel and other such metals, broken teeth (which are sharp and often rub on the oral tissues producing painful canker sores), vitamin deficiency such as lack of folic acid, B12, iron, etc. also leads to canker sore development. Apart from that, hormonal changes during menstruation, pregnancy and menopause are also canker sore causes in women. Another surprising cause of this problem is sodium lauryl sulphate which is a common ingredient in toothpastes.
Above all these reasons, what causes canker sores? Emotional stress has been identified as a possible trigger to canker sores; genetics is also a major factor for many canker sore patients. Canker sores are also common among immuno-suppressed patients such as HIV/AIDS patients, nichorandil and certain types of chemotherapy, zinc deficiency are also a few canker sore causes.
Avoiding abrasive food such as potato chips and other such snacks that can stick to your gum and cheeks and taking care while brushing your teeth are the common precautions to be taken care by those having canker sores.
