Canker sores caused by
Canker sores are shallow ulcers in the soft mouth lining, often triggered by local injury, stress, or immune sensitivity rather than infection.
The short answer
A canker sore is a shallow ulcer of the non-keratinized mouth lining, commonly triggered by minor trauma, stress, or immune sensitivity.
What is the direct answer?
What does this question mean?
Canker sores, also called aphthous ulcers, usually affect the inside of the lips or cheeks, the tongue, or the soft palate. They are different from cold sores, which are caused by herpes simplex virus and usually occur on the outer lip.
What can you do next?
Rinse gently with salt water, choose cool soft foods, avoid spicy or acidic foods, and use a soft toothbrush. A pharmacist or dentist can advise on a topical corticosteroid or protective oral gel when appropriate.
When should you seek dental care?
Arrange an examination if an ulcer lasts beyond two weeks, repeatedly returns, is unusually large, or makes eating and drinking difficult. Urgent assessment is needed for trouble swallowing, dehydration, or swelling of the face or throat.
What should you ask the dentist?
Ask whether the ulcer looks aphthous or traumatic, whether a sharp tooth or appliance is rubbing it, and whether recurrent ulcers warrant checking medicines, nutrition, or another oral condition.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main point about canker sores caused by?
A canker sore is a shallow ulcer of the non-keratinized mouth lining, commonly triggered by minor trauma, stress, or immune sensitivity.
Ask whether the ulcer looks aphthous or traumatic, whether a sharp tooth or appliance is rubbing it, and whether recurrent ulcers warrant checking medicines, nutrition, or another oral condition.?
Ask whether the ulcer looks aphthous or traumatic, whether a sharp tooth or appliance is rubbing it, and whether recurrent ulcers warrant checking medicines, nutrition, or another oral condition.