CANKER SORES
(Aphthous Stomatitis)
Canker sores are painful ulcers of the skin lining the
mouth and tongue. Usually only one sore, (1/4 to 1/2 inch in diameter),
is present at a time, although crops of 4 to 5 small ulcers may occur.
About 20% of the population is affected at one time or another.
What Is The Cause?
The etiology of canker sores is unknown; however, there
is some evidence that the following factors may somehow trigger or be associated
with the occurrence of the ulcers:
- Local injury to the mouth, (i.e. bitting the tongue/inside
of the lip or from vigorous tooth brushing), especially in people with
history of recurrent canker sores.
- Nutritional deficiencies of iron, folic acid or vitamin
B12.
- Emotional stress.
- Alterations in the body's immune system.
- Possible genetic predisposition, especially in people
with recurrent ulcer problems.
What Is The Treatment?
Since the ulcers will heal by themselves, the goal of
therapy is to help relieve the discomfort. Some treatments that may help
are:
- Rinsing your mouth 4 to 5 times daily with saline mouthwash,
(1/4 teaspoon of salt for every 8 oz. of warm water).
- Applying a soothing preparation like Orabase or Proxigel
to the ulcers (non prescription).
- Using a soft-bristled tooth brush.
- Avoiding foods with sharp surfaces or other irritating
qualities.
- Taking Lactobacillus Acidophilus preparations, (Lactinex, Intestinex,
Acidophilus capsules, etc.)-anaerobic bacterial compounds found in yogurt
or "sweet" milk which are possibly beneficial to the mouth and
intestinal tract.
How Long Will It Take To Heal?
Most canker sores heal within 2 weeks (rarely in 3-5 weeks).
The ulcers are usually the most painful in the first 2 or 3 days. You should
come to Health Services to be examined if they last more than
2 weeks.
updated July 2, 2003
