Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, are small, shallow lesions that develop on the soft tissues inside your mouth or at the base of your gums. Unlike cold sores, canker sores don’t occur on the surface of your lips and aren’t contagious. They can be quite painful, making eating and talking uncomfortable.
The exact cause of canker sores is unknown, but they may be triggered by stress, minor injury to the inside of the mouth, acidic or spicy foods, or underlying health conditions. Symptoms include a painful sore or sores inside your mouth, a tingling or burning sensation prior to the appearance of the sores, and round, white or gray sores with a red edge.
The Science Behind Canker Sores: Why They Hurt
Canker sores hurt because they expose the sensitive nerve endings in the mouth. The mouth is a highly sensitive area with a rich supply of nerves and blood vessels. When the protective mucous membrane is breached, as in the case of a canker sore, the nerve endings become exposed, leading to pain. Additionally, the inflammatory response of the body to the sore can exacerbate the pain, as immune cells flood the area to promote healing, causing swelling and further irritation of the nerves.
Common Triggers: What Might Be Causing Your Canker Sore
Several factors can trigger the onset of canker sores. These include stress, hormonal changes, food sensitivities (particularly to acidic or spicy foods), nutritional deficiencies (such as a lack of vitamin B12, zinc, folate, or iron), and physical trauma (such as biting the inside of the cheek or irritation from dental appliances). Some people may also have a genetic predisposition to developing canker sores, and they can be associated with certain medical conditions like celiac disease or inflammatory bowel diseases.
When to Seek Medical Advice: Recognizing Severe Cases
While most canker sores are harmless and resolve on their own within a week or two, there are instances when medical advice should be sought. If you have unusually large sores, sores that persist for more than two weeks, sores that spread, significant pain despite over-the-counter treatments, or difficulty eating or drinking, it’s time to consult a healthcare professional. Additionally, if you experience high fever or feel generally unwell, these could be signs of a more serious condition requiring medical attention.
Home Remedies for Canker Sores: An Overview
There are several home remedies that can help alleviate the pain and speed up the healing process of canker sores. These remedies focus on reducing inflammation, protecting the sore from further irritation, and promoting healing. While not all remedies work for everyone, experimenting with a few can help you find the most effective solution for your situation.
Salt Water Rinse: A Simple and Effective Solution
Rinsing your mouth with salt water is a simple and effective way to help heal canker sores. Salt has natural antiseptic properties that can help reduce inflammation and prevent infection. To make a salt water rinse, dissolve one teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water. Swish the solution around your mouth for about 30 seconds before spitting it out. Repeat this process several times a day for best results.
Baking Soda Paste: Neutralizing Acidity
Baking soda can help neutralize the acidity in your mouth, providing relief from the pain of canker sores. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can aid in healing. To make a baking soda paste, mix a small amount of baking soda with water until it forms a thick paste. Apply the paste directly to the canker sore and leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing your mouth with water. Repeat this process several times a day.
Honey: Nature’s Antibacterial Agent
