Why Do I Have Canker Sores? Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Canker sores—small, painful ulcers inside the mouth—are a common issue for many people. Although they’re usually harmless, they can make eating, drinking, and even talking uncomfortable. If you find yourself frequently dealing with canker sores, understanding their causes can help you manage or prevent them. At Lifetime Smiles Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr. Arzegar and our team are here to help you identify possible triggers and find relief for these pesky sores.

Here’s a closer look at what causes canker sores, how to manage them, and when to seek professional help.

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What Are Canker Sores?

Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, are small, round ulcers that develop on the soft tissues inside the mouth, such as the inner cheeks, lips, gums, or tongue. They usually start as a small, red bump and quickly develop into a painful, white or yellowish center surrounded by a red halo.

Key Characteristics:

• Typically small (under 1 cm), though larger sores can occur.
• Usually white or yellow with a red border.
• Not contagious, unlike cold sores, which are caused by the herpes virus.

Tip: Canker sores generally heal on their own within one to two weeks, but there are ways to speed up healing and ease discomfort.

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1. Nutritional Deficiencies

A lack of certain nutrients, such as iron, folic acid, zinc, or vitamin B12, can increase the likelihood of developing canker sores. These nutrients are essential for maintaining healthy cells and tissues in the body, including in the mouth.

Symptoms of Deficiency-Related Canker Sores:

• Frequent, recurring sores despite healthy oral hygiene.
• Other signs of deficiencies, such as fatigue, pale skin, or low immunity.

Solution: If you suspect a nutritional deficiency, consider talking to your healthcare provider about supplements or adjusting your diet to include more nutrient-rich foods like leafy greens, lean meats, beans, and fortified cereals.

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2. Stress and Anxiety

Stress and emotional tension are known to weaken the immune system, making your body more susceptible to canker sores. Many people report an increase in sores during times of high stress, such as exams, work deadlines, or personal challenges.

How Stress Contributes to Canker Sores:

• Reduces immune function, making it harder for your body to fend off minor issues.
• Increases the likelihood of biting your cheek or lips, which can trigger sores.

Solution: Practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing, exercise, or meditation can help manage stress and reduce the likelihood of canker sores. Taking regular breaks and setting aside time for relaxation can also be beneficial.

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3. Minor Oral Injuries

Small injuries from accidentally biting your cheek, brushing too hard, or eating sharp or rough foods can lead to canker sores. These minor traumas damage the delicate tissues in your mouth, providing an opening for canker sores to develop.

Common Causes of Oral Injuries:

• Biting your cheek or lip accidentally.
• Brushing aggressively or using a toothbrush with hard bristles.
• Eating crunchy or sharp-edged foods like chips or crusty bread.

Solution: To avoid trauma, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush gently. If you tend to bite your cheeks, try to be mindful while eating, especially when stressed or rushed.

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4. Certain Foods

Certain foods, particularly acidic, spicy, or salty items, can trigger or worsen canker sores. Common culprits include citrus fruits, tomatoes, vinegar-based foods, and spicy dishes. Some people may also have sensitivities to food additives or preservatives, which can lead to mouth irritation and sores.

Foods That May Trigger Canker Sores:

• Citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, grapefruits)
• Tomatoes and tomato-based sauces
• Spicy foods (hot peppers, salsa)
• Salty snacks (chips, pretzels)

Solution: Avoid foods that tend to irritate your mouth. Opt for milder options if you’re prone to canker sores, and rinse your mouth with water after eating acidic or spicy foods to reduce irritation.

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5. Hormonal Changes

Hormonal fluctuations, such as those associated with menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause, can increase the risk of canker sores. Many women report outbreaks of canker sores around their menstrual cycle or during pregnancy due to these changes.

Why Hormones Impact Canker Sores:

• Hormonal changes can affect immune response and inflammatory levels.
• Increased blood flow and tissue sensitivity during certain times can make the mouth more prone to irritation.

Solution: While hormonal changes are often beyond your control, staying hydrated, maintaining good oral hygiene, and managing stress can help minimize outbreaks.

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6. Weak Immune System

Individuals with weakened immune systems, due to conditions like autoimmune diseases, HIV/AIDS, or chemotherapy, are more prone to canker sores. In these cases, the immune system is less capable of protecting the mouth’s delicate tissues from irritation and injury, which increases the likelihood of sores developing.

Signs of Immune-Related Canker Sores:

• Frequent, persistent sores that take longer to heal.
• Sores that appear alongside other immune-related symptoms.

Solution: If you have a weakened immune system, practicing extra care with your oral hygiene can help. Avoiding known triggers and consulting your healthcare provider for immune support can also reduce the incidence of canker sores.

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7. Toothpaste and Oral Care Products

Some toothpaste and mouthwashes contain sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), a foaming agent that can irritate the sensitive tissues in the mouth and lead to canker sores in susceptible individuals. Switching to an SLS-free toothpaste may reduce the occurrence of sores for those who experience frequent outbreaks.

Products to Avoid for Canker Sore Prevention:

• Toothpastes and mouthwashes with SLS.
• Highly astringent mouthwashes with alcohol.

Solution: Look for SLS-free and alcohol-free products that are gentle on the mouth. SLS-free toothpaste is available in most stores, and many brands offer alternatives formulated for sensitive mouths.

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How to Treat Canker Sores

While most canker sores heal on their own within one to two weeks, there are steps you can take to ease the pain and speed up the healing process:

1. Use a Saltwater Rinse: Mix a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and rinse your mouth gently to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
2. Apply a Baking Soda Paste: Mix baking soda with a little water to make a paste, then apply it to the sore to neutralize acids and reduce pain.
3. Over-the-Counter Gels: Gels containing benzocaine or hydrogen peroxide provide a protective layer over the sore, helping to reduce irritation and speed up healing.
4. Avoid Irritants: Stay away from spicy, acidic, or rough foods that can worsen pain.
5. Stay Hydrated: Drinking water keeps your mouth moist and helps wash away irritants that may trigger sores.

Tip: If canker sores persist, worsen, or are accompanied by other symptoms, contact your dentist for further evaluation and treatment options.

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Lifetime Smiles: Helping You Manage and Prevent Canker Sores

At Lifetime Smiles Cosmetic Dentistry, we understand that canker sores can be painful and disruptive to daily life. Dr. Arzegar and our team are here to provide you with personalized advice, professional care, and treatment options to help manage and prevent canker sores.

Why Choose Lifetime Smiles?

• Expert Guidance: Our team provides advice on managing triggers and maintaining oral health.
• Compassionate Care: We understand the discomfort of canker sores and work to make each visit as comfortable as possible.
• Customized Solutions: From product recommendations to dietary advice, we tailor our approach to your unique needs.

If you’re dealing with recurring canker sores, schedule an appointment with Dr. Arzegar today to discuss possible solutions and treatment options.

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Understanding Canker Sores for Better Oral Health

Canker sores are common, but understanding their triggers and taking preventive steps can help reduce their impact on your life. With some simple changes in diet, stress management, and oral care habits, you can find relief from the discomfort of these sores. For more tips on maintaining good oral health, explore our Blog, where we share expert advice for a healthy, comfortable smile.

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