Canker sores

Description Canker sores are pa...

Description

Canker sores are painful, round mouth sores. They show up in several places around the mouth, cheeks, tongue, lips, and gums. They are also known as aphthous stomatitis. Canker sores often run in families. They also are linked with certain diseases. The cause is unknown, but canker sores have several common triggers. These include emotional stress, menstruation, mouth injury and certain foods, such as citrus or acidic foods. Canker sores are not contagious. They are often confused with cold sores, which are caused by a virus.

Symptoms

Burning or tingling may occur before the sore starts. Some canker sores are painful and easily irritated.

Tests

Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment

Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Diagnosis is made based on examination. The doctor or dentist may do tests to make sure the mouth sore is not a different disease. Home treatment is usually fine for simple canker sores. A doctor's visit is needed if sores occur for the first time, come back more often, get larger or don't go away within two weeks.

Other Specific Tests: Biopsy, complete blood count (CBC)

Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Family Practice, Dentistry, Dentistry - Pediatric

Treatment

Smaller canker sores usually heal within a couple of weeks and do not leave scars. Larger canker sores may require steroid medicines. Treatments to reduce symptoms include eating bland foods, rinsing with warm water, and using gels or creams to relieve pain.