Canker Sore Treatment Questions
Q: What causes canker sores?
Approximately 20% of the population suffers from canker
sores. Canker sores do not appear to be caused by viruses
or bacteria. The cause is unknown. It is theorized that
there is a hereditary immune system link. This means
that the body’s defense mechanism (your immune system)
is triggered and attacks your normal cells and tissue
in error. There are also numerous local factors which
are thought to increase ones susceptibility to mouth
ulcers.Mouth trauma such as following a dental procedure,
cheek, tongue or lip biting, even aggressive tooth cleaning
can cause canker sores. With an immune system link,
anything that would lower ones resistance may trigger
a canker sore outbreak. This may occur with stress,
any illnesses especially viral infections (flu, cold),
dietary deficiency (iron, folic acid or vitamin B12),
hormonal changes during menstrual periods and possible
food allergies. Most women experience improvement or
remission during pregnancy and research has shown that
hormone replacement therapy has been used successfully
to treat women. It is also theorized there may be an
allergic reaction to a type of oral bacteria. Some studies
have shown a link to those who have also have gastrointestinal
problems. Canker sores may also occur with no identifiable
cause.
Q: How do I know if my ulcers are canker sores?
Canker sores are diagnosed by the appearance and location
of the ulcers (see causes). We highly recommend that
you verify the diagnosis with your dentist or doctor,
especially if the ulcer (s) persists or recurs.Other
causes of oral ulceration are herpes and other autoimmune
conditions (pemphigoid, erythema multiforme, pemphigus,
lichen planus) and more rarely oral cancer (carcinoma).
A relatively new ulcer-like condition is hairy leukoplakia,
a condition that occurs with AIDS and one that may be
mistaken for the common canker sore. You must consult
with a Doctor to confirm a diagnosis. The only definitive
diagnosis is to have a biopsy of the ulcerated area.
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