Canker Sore

Canker sores are shallow ulcers that develop in the soft tissues in the mouth or the base of your gums. They usually begin as very small, white or yellow ulcers surrounded by redness that may increase up to half an inch in size. Canker sores can be very painful, making it difficult to eat and talk. The exact cause that triggers canker sore is unknown though doctors believe a number of factors can result in this disorder include:

• A mouth injury due to some dental work, sports injury, aggressive brushing or ill-fitting dentures

• Certain foods including citrus and acidic fruits/vegetables

• A diet lacking in vitamin B-12, zinc, folic acid or iron

• An allergy in the mouth

• Hormonal shift during menstruation

• A disease of the immune system

• Emotional stress

Anybody can get canker sores but you are at a greater risk if you are a female, a teenager or young adult, or have a family history of canker sores.

When to seek expert advise

Consult our skilled doctors at the Department of Dentistry at The Aga Khan University Hospital if you experience large canker sores that are recurring or persist for long. Seek immediate medical attention if the pain is severe and uncontrollable causing difficulty in eating or drinking. A fever that may accompany the sores is alarming and you should immediately visit your doctor. ​