Canker sores can appear in the mouth, inside the cheeks, on the tongue. We know that certain foods cause canker sores, but what are the other causes? When to worry and consult?
Definition: what is a canker sore?
A canker sore is a lesion of the oral mucosa which is located inside the mouth, on the mucous membranes or on the tongue. “A canker sore is a small ulceration of a few which is rather round, whitish color with a well-defined red border. Sometimes several canker sores may appear. Very often painful, the canker sore first causes small tingling then it becomes bothersome, especially as thewe tend to “play” with. Canker sores are usually single, but they can sometimes appear group of 3 or 4” says Dr. Rachel Chau, dentist.
Photo of a canker sore
Is canker sore contagious?
“The canker sore is absolutely not contagious“ defends the dentist.
What are the causes of a canker sore?
“Canker sores do not have specific causes that would systematically cause them. On the other hand, they can follow trauma linked to a bite of the mucosa, to a brushing too vigorously teeth, or even poorly positioned dentures recalls Dr. Chau. Some food allergy could cause, among other symptoms, outbreaks of mouth ulcers.
Crohn’s disease can cause mouth ulcers
Any irritating factor can cause ulceration in the mouth. They can also be linked to certain foods such as nutTHE strawberries, THE spicessome cheeses as the gruyere or even shellfish. “Some drugs may also be involved. We also sometimes mention vitamin and mineral deficiencies (iron, vitamin B)” continues our expert. We know that certain diseases can promote the appearance of canker sores. “This concerns in particular the Crohn’s disease or other digestive pathologies such as gastric reflux which can irritate the mucous membrane” notes the dentist.
When to consult for a canker sore?
“It is advisable to consult a health professional for a canker sore if it does not resolve after a week, if it multiplies or if it grows to reach several centimeters“ says Dr. Chau. It is best to consult when it becomes too bothersome or if the canker sore returns chronically.
The diagnosis is not always easy to make. “We look at the shape, color and appearance of the canker sore. specifies the dentist.
The first method of preventing canker sores is to have good oral hygiene. It is necessary to brush your teeth several times a day. “We avoid foods that cause mouth ulcers when we noticed which ones are in question” recommends our interlocutor. Certain bad habits, such as biting or brushing your teeth too hard, promote the appearance of canker sores. “If you feel that a dental prosthesis is irritating, you make an appointment with your dentist before the canker sore appears” adds the dentist.
“Healing is in most cases spontaneous within a few days to a week, it disappears on its own” notes Dr. Chau. For benign canker sores, the treatment is local. “It is based on the use of mouthwashes based onhyaluronic acid healing, of freeze or anesthetic tablets or even oral spray“ suggests our expert. The main objective of the treatments is to relieve the canker sore and the irritation. When an underlying disease is detected, treatments will be adapted to it. The disappearance of canker sores will result from the treatment of this pathology.
What foods should you avoid in case of canker sores?
Each individual reacts differently to the foods that cause canker sores, but generally these foods should be avoided:
- THE nut
- apples
- THE cheese
- the strawberries
- spices
- the crustaceans
What natural remedy for canker sores?
If you are taking medication, be sure to tell your doctor or pharmacist before being prescribed a herbal treatment. This advice does not replace the advice of a doctor or pharmacist.
► Myrrh is renowned for its antiseptic properties. In tincture form, it is used against oral and throat infections, such as canker sores and gingivitis, as a gargle or application.
► In the form of extracts, licorice has antiseptic and soothing properties that contribute to the healing of canker sores. Licorice extract is applied externally, dabbing the ulcerated area. Licorice is also administered in the form of lozenges to suck.
Thanks to Dr. Rachel Chau, dentist.