Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, are small, shallow lesions that develop on the soft tissues inside your mouth or at the base of your gums. Unlike cold sores, canker sores don’t occur on the surface of your lips and aren’t contagious. They can be quite painful, making eating and talking uncomfortable.
The exact cause of canker sores is unknown, but they may be triggered by stress, minor injury to the inside of the mouth, acidic or spicy foods, or underlying health conditions.
Symptoms include a painful sore or sores inside your mouth, a tingling or burning sensation prior to the appearance of the sores, and round, white or gray sores with a red edge.
The Science Behind Canker Sores: Why They Hurt
Canker sores hurt because they expose the sensitive nerve endings in the mouth. The mouth is a highly sensitive area with a rich supply of nerves and blood vessels. When the protective mucous membrane is breached, as in the case of a canker sore, the nerve endings become exposed, leading to pain.
Additionally, the inflammatory response of the body to the sore can exacerbate the pain, as immune cells flood the area to promote healing, causing swelling and further irritation of the nerves.
Common Triggers: What Might Be Causing Your Canker Sore
Several factors can trigger the onset of canker sores. These include stress, hormonal changes, food sensitivities (particularly to acidic or spicy foods), nutritional deficiencies (such as a lack of vitamin B12, zinc, folate, or iron), and physical trauma (such as biting the inside of the cheek or irritation from dental appliances).
Some people may also have a genetic predisposition to developing canker sores, and they can be associated with certain medical conditions like celiac disease or inflammatory bowel diseases.
When to Seek Medical Advice: Recognizing Severe Cases
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