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Definition

Aphthous ulcers are also known as canker sores. They are painful, temporary sores that may occur anywhere in the mouth. The sores can occur one at a time or as a group. Although canker sores are not serious, other mouth sores may be. If you suspect you have this condition, make an appointment to see your doctor.

Canker Sores in the Mouth

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Causes

No one knows what causes aphthous ulcers. It is a common misconception that they are a form of the herpes]]> virus.

Unlike herpes, aphthous ulcers cannot spread from one person to another. They are thought to result from a reaction of the immune system. They tend to occur more often in women than in men. The first instance tends to occur between the ages of 10 to 40.

The following conditions may make certain people more prone to developing these mouth sores:

  • Stress or trauma in the mouth, such as biting the tongue
  • Certain foods (especially acidic foods, such as tomatoes and pineapples)
  • Family history
  • Changes in hormone levels

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Risk Factors

The following may increase your chances of developing aphthous ulcers. If you have any of these risk factors, tell your doctor:

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Symptoms

If you experience any of these symptoms, do not assume it is due to aphthous ulcers. Mouth sores similar to these may be caused by other more serious conditions.

Aphthous ulcers have various sizes. They typically occur on the inner surface of the cheeks and lips, on the tongue, and the soft palate. Usually they are an open, shallow grayish sore with a slightly raised, yellowish-white border, surrounded by a red border.

Some people get aphthous ulcers two or three times per year. Others develop lesions continually one after another. Usually the most painful phase is the first 3 to 4 days, and then the sores begin to heal.

  • Minor ulcers (the most common form)
    • Less than one centimeter in diameter
    • Usually last 7 to 14 days
    • Heal without scarring
  • Major ulcers
    • Greater than one centimeter in diameter
    • Last several weeks or even months
    • Heal with scarring

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be performed. Looking at the sores is the primary way to tell the difference between aphthous ulcers and other more serious mouth sores. In certain cases, the doctor may take a small sample of a sore for microscopic tissue examination (a biopsy]]> ) or order cultures or blood tests.

It is especially important to examine mouth sores that do not heal within two weeks. They may be a sign of cancer.

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Treatment

Aphthous ulcers usually resolve on their own within 1 to 2 weeks. Treatments for aphthous ulcers are not usually necessary. However, treatment options for especially painful or persistent aphthous ulcers may include the following:

Oral Pain Relieving Rinses or Gels

An oral rinse, such as viscous lidocaine may be used every three hours or before meals. This provides short-term relief from pain caused by aphthous ulcers. In addition, over-the-counter, anti-pain oral gels can be applied directly on the sores usually four times daily to numb the area and relieve pain temporarily.

Oral Antibiotic Rinse

For multiple sores, a liquid form of the antibiotic tetracycline]]> can be used as an oral rinse four times daily for 10 days. The liquid can coat the ulcers and prevent new ulcers from forming. Sometimes, as a side effect, this treatment can cause an oral infection called ]]>candidiasis]]> , or thrush, which is easily treated.

Corticosteroids

For severe outbreaks of minor or major aphthous ulcers, steroids may be taken. It is usually in the form of a liquid oral rinse after meals and at bedtime. Steroids help reduce inflammation of the mouth caused by severe sores.

Prevention

It is not always possible to prevent aphthous ulcers. Your genes and other medical conditions are out of your control. To help reduce your chances of getting aphthous ulcers, take the following steps:

  • Chew food carefully to avoid biting the tongue or cheek, which may cause mouth irritation and lead to an aphthous ulcer
  • Avoid acidic foods that may promote aphthous ulcers, such as tomatoes or pineapples
  • If you do not get enough iron, vitamin B12, or folate in your diet, talk to your doctor about how to get enough of these nutrients to prevent aphthous ulcers (Note that taking extra iron, vitamin B12, or folate does not prevent aphthous ulcers in people who are not deficient in these nutrients)