Canker sores or mouth ulcers

Canker sores or mouth ulcers are ulcers that occur in the oral mucosa and they are one of the most frequent oral conditions. When the mucosa gets damaged, the nerve endings are exposed to external elements such as food or beverages and this causes discomfort and pain. They can be identified by their whitish colour and their oval shape. But there is no need to worry. These sores are annoying, but they are not contagious.

These are the areas where canker sores can appear:

If you tend to suffer from canker sores or mouth ulcers, these are the factors that cause them to appear:

• Rubbing of dentures and biting yourself
• Contact with chemical products, hot substances or medicines
• Food allergies
• Infections or a weakened immune system
• Stress and hormonal disorders
• Tobacco
• Very rarely, they are manifestations of systemic diseases

KNOW THE SYMPTOMS

If you have canker sores, you will feel an irritating pain and notice the appearance of a red inflamed stain that opens up and takes on a whitish or yellowish colour with a shiny red halo around it. Depending on the seriousness of your canker sore, you may experience fever, general discomfort or the inflammation of a nearby ganglion.

The sores will continue to develop over a period of two weeks, but the pain usually subsides within a few days. You should pay attention to their size because this is one of the most important factors.