The exact cause of most canker sores is unknown. Stress or tissue injury is thought to be the cause of simple canker sores. Certain foods -- including citrus or acidic fruits and vegetables (such as lemons, oranges, pineapples, apples, figs, tomatoes, and strawberries) -- can trigger a canker sore or make the problem worse. Sometimes a sharp tooth surface or dental appliance, such as braces or ill-fitting dentures, might also trigger canker sores.
Some cases of complex canker sores are caused by an underlying health condition, such as an impaired immune system; nutritional problems, such as
vitamin B-12, zinc, folic acid, or iron deficiency; or gastrointestinal tract disease, such as celiac disease or Crohn's disease
Next Steps
Pain from a canker sore generally lessens in a few days, and the sores usually heal without treatment in about a week or two. Cankers sores treated with dental lasers exhibit almost complete relief of the symptoms immediately. Talk to your dentist about the procedure.
Can Canker Sores Be Prevented?
Although there is no cure for canker sores, and they often recur, you may be able to reduce their frequency by:
Avoiding foods that irritate your mouth, including citrus fruits, acidic vegetables, and spicy foodsAvoiding irritation from gum chewingBrushing with a soft-bristled brush after meals and flossing daily, which will keep your mouth free of foods that might trigger a sore
You should call your dentist about canker sores if you have:
Unusually large soresSores that are spreadingSores that last 3 weeks or longerIntolerable pain despite avoiding trigger foods and taking over-the-counter pain medicationDifficulty drinking enough fluidsA high fever with the appearance of the canker sores