What Is a Mouth Ulcer (Canker Sore)? When Should It Be Taken Seriously?

Experts warn that mouth sores lasting longer than two weeks, recurring frequently, or failing to heal may be a warning sign.

Canker Sore Symptoms What Are They?

• Round or oval white or yellow sores inside the mouth
• Redness around the lesion
• Pain that increases while eating and speaking
• A burning and sensitive sensation

They are commonly seen on the inner lips, cheek mucosa, tongue, and palate.

What Causes Canker Sores?

Although the exact cause of canker sores is not fully known, several triggers stand out:

• Intense stress
• Weakening of the immune system
• Deficiency of vitamin B12, iron, and folic acid
• Hormonal changes
• Cheek biting or aggressive tooth brushing
• Ill fitting dentures or orthodontic appliances

Vitamin and mineral deficiencies in particular should always be investigated in cases of recurrent canker sores.

Why Are Sores Lasting Longer Than 2 Weeks Important?

A typical canker sore heals within 7 to 10 days.

However, a dentist or relevant specialist should be consulted without delay in the following situations:

• Sores lasting longer than 2 weeks
• Frequently recurring or large canker sores
• Lesions that grow, bleed, or become increasingly painful
• Weight loss, prolonged diarrhea, joint pain, or skin lesions accompanying the sore

These symptoms may indicate an underlying systemic disease.

Association With Systemic Diseases

Recurrent and non healing canker sores may be associated with the following conditions:

• Iron, vitamin B12, and folic acid deficiencies
• Celiac disease
• Inflammatory bowel diseases
• Behçet's disease
• Immune system disorders

Oral tissues can sometimes provide the first signals of diseases originating from the digestive or immune system. For this reason, they should not be evaluated merely as a “local sore.”

Canker Sores Should Not Be Confused With Cold Sores

Canker sores:

• Appear inside the mouth
• Are not contagious
• Are triggered by stress and deficiencies

Cold sores:

• Usually appear around the lips
• Are viral and contagious
• Are caused by the herpes virus

Accurate diagnosis is essential for proper management.

How Can You Prevent Canker Sores?

• Maintain proper oral hygiene
• Use a soft toothbrush
• Limit highly acidic and excessively spicy foods
• Do not neglect regular dental checkups
• Investigate and correct vitamin deficiencies
• Pay attention to stress management

Oral health reflects overall health. Most canker sores are harmless and heal on their own. However, sores that last longer than two weeks, recur frequently, or appear alongside other symptoms should always be evaluated.

A small looking sore can sometimes be the first sign of a larger problem. Regular checkups and early diagnosis are crucial for preventing potential risks.