subject: Causes And Treatment Options For Canker Sore [print this page] A canker sore, or aphthous ulcers as they are also known as, are small painful sores that form on the inside of your lips, cheeks, and even on your tongue. Don't confuse a canker sore with a fever blister or a cold sore, which is a virus and forms on the outside of your mouth in most all cases. Unlike cold sores which is the herpes virus, a canker sore is a bacterial infection, and not contagious. Canker sores can occur with any age group, but most commonly affect people between the ages of 10-40. It seems to hit teenagers and women in their 20's the most for whatever unknown reason. Medical science still has no idea what causes canker sores to form, but many times it is from stress and eating habits.
Common reasons that these lip sores breakout.
Toothpaste and Mouthwash - Believe it or not, your toothpaste could be what causes canker sores in your mouth. If it contains SLS, or sodium lauryl sulfate, then your toothpaste can create a higher rate of canker sores.
Stress - This causes so many different health problems, with canker sores being just one of them. If you've recently had a canker sore, think back to when it started and whether or not you were under stress at the time. Chances are you were.
Nutrition - Another big factor in what causes canker sores is what we eat. Research has shown that being deficient in Vitamin B-1, B-6, B-12, and Vitamin C, helps in the formation of canker sores. In addition, not enough zinc, folic acid or iron in your body does the same thing.
Hormones - For many women, going through their monthly menstrual cycle has been shown to cause more canker sores than at other times.
Food Allergies - Allergic reactions to certain foods have shown to be canker sore triggers. Some of these foods include milk, cheese, oranges, apples, tomatoes, cereals, nuts, chocolate, and many more in addition.
We will start with some easy, preliminary ideas. Some toothpastes can actually encourage canker sores, so avoid toothpastes that have sodium lauryl sulfate. Try your local natural health food stores to find a gentle, natural toothpaste. Many large grocery stores are now carrying natural toothpastes so you can also try looking at your local grocery. Brush your teeth with a soft toothbrush after every meal and floss once a day. Often it is the food that gets stuck between our teeth that can irritate your mouth and start the sore. Do not eat spicy, crunchy or hard food. Also, avoid gum chewing. Make sure to get your teeth cleaned twice a year, at least. Basically, if you keep your mouth healthy it will greatly reduce your risk of getting canker sores.
Helpful tips and treatment for canker sore
Vitamin supplements especially Vitamin B complex and Vitamin C will help heal the sore quickly.
Strong mouthwash gargled for 60 seconds may help kill the bacteria. Do this before going to bed, immediately upon waking and at least once or twice during the day.
Salt and water solution used as mouthwash may also be helpful.
Over the counter covering and numbing preparations may also be of help relieve the pain i.e., Orabase, or Colgate Soothe and Seal.
Herbal preparations may also do well for you i.e., Burdock, Lady's Mantle and Sage.
You may also use wet tea bags, and press it on the ulcer. The tannic acid in tea is an astringent that will help relieve the pain and speed up healing.
For stress related canker sores, relaxation exercises may help avoid the development of canker sore.
by: alena jones
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