### What are Canker Sores? Canker sores, also known as mouth ulcers or aphthous ulcers, are small, shallow wounds in your mouth that can make eating and talking uncomfortable. They appear as white or yellowish open wounds with a red border and can be found on your gums, tongue, the roof of your mouth, or inside your cheeks. ### Types of Canker Sores - **Minor Canker Sores**: These are the most common and usually appear three or four times a year. They are less than 1 centimeter across and heal in about a week without scarring. - **Major Canker Sores**: These are larger and can last from 2 to 6 weeks, often healing with scarring. - **Herpetiform Canker Sores**: These are rare and appear as clusters of tiny ulcers. They usually heal in about a week without scarring. ### Causes The exact cause of canker sores is unknown, but they may be triggered by factors such as stress, minor mouth injuries, acidic foods, hormonal changes, or a weakened immune system. They are not contagious and are not caused by a virus. ### Symptoms - Painful sores inside the mouth - Discomfort while eating or talking - A tingling or burning sensation before the sores appear ### Diagnosis Doctors can usually diagnose canker sores through a physical exam and medical history. In some cases, blood tests or tissue samples may be needed to rule out other conditions. ### Treatment Most canker sores heal on their own within a week or two. For larger or more painful sores, treatments may include: - Over-the-counter mouth rinses - Topical medications with benzocaine, fluocinonide, or hydrogen peroxide - Home remedies like salt water rinses, honey, and aloe vera ### Prevention To prevent canker sores, you can: - Maintain good oral hygiene - Avoid acidic or spicy foods - Manage stress - Use a soft-bristled toothbrush ### When to See a Doctor Consult a doctor if your canker sores are unusually large, last more than two weeks, or are accompanied by other symptoms like fever or difficulty swallowing.