Cankers in the mouth, also known as aphthous ulcers, are small, shallow lesions that develop on the soft tissues in your mouth or at the base of your gums. These painful sores can make eating, drinking, and even talking uncomfortable. While they are usually harmless and heal on their own within a week or two, understanding the causes, symptoms, and effective treatments can help you manage and prevent them.
Aphthous ulcers are a common oral health issue, affecting about 20-40% of the population at some point in their lives. They can appear as single or multiple sores in various parts of the mouth, including the lips, tongue, cheeks, and gums. The exact cause of cankers is still unknown, but several factors are believed to contribute to their development, including stress, minor mouth injury, certain foods, and underlying health conditions.
Causes of Cankers in Mouth
While the exact cause of aphthous ulcers is still not fully understood, research suggests that a combination of factors can contribute to their development. Some of the possible causes include:
- Minor mouth injury from dental work, hard brushing, or accidental cheek bite
- Stress and anxiety, which can weaken the immune system
- Certain foods, such as citrus fruits, acidic vegetables, and spicy or sharp foods
- Hormonal changes during menstruation, menopause, or pregnancy
- Smoking and tobacco products
- Underlying health conditions, such as celiac disease, Crohn's disease, or Behçet's syndrome
- Deficiencies in vitamins, such as vitamin B12 or iron
Symptoms of Cankers in Mouth
The symptoms of aphthous ulcers can vary depending on the severity and location of the sores. Common symptoms include:
A small, round, or oval-shaped sore in the mouth, usually white or yellowish in color with a red border
Pain or discomfort, especially when eating, drinking, or talking
Difficulty swallowing or chewing food
Inflammation or swelling in the surrounding tissues
Effective Treatments for Cankers in Mouth
While there is no cure for aphthous ulcers, various treatments can help alleviate symptoms and promote healing. Some effective treatments include:
Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications
Topical creams, gels, or pastes containing ingredients like benzocaine, lidocaine, or hydrogen peroxide can help numb the area, reduce pain, and promote healing.
| Medication | Description |
|---|---|
| Benzocaine | A local anesthetic that numbs the area and reduces pain |
| Lidocaine | A topical anesthetic that helps reduce pain and discomfort |
| Hydrogen Peroxide | An antiseptic that helps clean and promote healing |
Home Remedies
Several home remedies can help alleviate symptoms and promote healing, including:
- Rinsing with salt water or baking soda solution
- Applying a cold compress or ice pack to reduce pain and swelling
- Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle mouthwash
- Avoiding spicy, acidic, or sharp foods
Key Points
- Cankers in the mouth, or aphthous ulcers, are small, shallow lesions that develop on soft tissues in the mouth.
- Causes include minor mouth injury, stress, certain foods, hormonal changes, and underlying health conditions.
- Symptoms include pain, discomfort, difficulty swallowing, and inflammation.
- Effective treatments include OTC medications, home remedies, and maintaining good oral hygiene.
- Managing stress, avoiding irritating foods, and regular dental check-ups can help prevent cankers.
Prevention and Management
While it's not possible to completely prevent cankers in the mouth, there are several steps you can take to reduce the risk and manage symptoms:
Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly
Avoid irritating foods and drinks, such as citrus fruits, acidic vegetables, and spicy or sharp foods
Manage stress through relaxation techniques, such as meditation or deep breathing
Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings
When to Seek Medical Attention
While most cankers in the mouth heal on their own, there are certain situations where you should seek medical attention:
If the sore persists or worsens over time
If you experience difficulty swallowing or breathing
If you have a fever or swollen lymph nodes
If you notice signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, or pus
What are the main causes of cankers in the mouth?
+The main causes of cankers in the mouth include minor mouth injury, stress, certain foods, hormonal changes, and underlying health conditions.
How can I treat cankers in the mouth?
+Effective treatments for cankers in the mouth include over-the-counter medications, home remedies, and maintaining good oral hygiene.
Can cankers in the mouth be prevented?
+While it’s not possible to completely prevent cankers in the mouth, maintaining good oral hygiene, avoiding irritating foods, and managing stress can help reduce the risk.