Why does aphthae appear in the mouth? What is Good for Aphthae?
Aphthae appear as a round or oval-shaped sore in the mucous membrane of the mouth with a red border on a yellow to white base. These lesions, which are usually 2-10 millimeters in diameter, occur on the tongue, inner cheek surface, inside the lips and soft palate. Depending on their size and number, they may cause pain and burning sensation. Although it starts as a small, red spot at first, the white membrane layer in the center becomes prominent within a few days and becomes aphthae.
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What is Aphthae?
Aphthae are small sores that appear on the oral mucosa, usually round or oval in shape and covered with a whitish-gram-like coating. They can range in size from a few millimeters to one centimeter and the surrounding tissues can be red and tender. They cause oral discomfort and discomfort in daily activities such as speaking and eating.
Aphthae usually heal spontaneously within 7-14 days.
What are the Symptoms of Aphthae?
Aphthae usually present with certain symptoms. These symptoms include:
- Burning or Tingling Sensation: 1-2 days before a canker sore appears, you may feel a slight burning, stinging or tingling sensation in the mouth. This sensation usually foretells the area where the canker sore will appear.
- Round or Oval Sores in the Mouth: The most prominent symptom is painful sores, usually white or gray in color, with redness around them. These sores can occur on the tongue, inside the lips, mucous membranes of the cheeks or gums.
- Pain and Sensitivity: The aphthous area is sensitive to touch. It can cause severe discomfort when eating, talking or brushing your teeth.
- Difficulty Eating: Especially when hot, sour, spicy or salty foods are consumed, the pain may increase and the individual may have difficulty eating.
- Tenderness in the Lymph Glands: In some cases, especially during large aphthae, mild swelling and tenderness may be seen in the lymph glands under the jaw.
- Bad breath and changes in taste: Aphthae can affect the oral flora and this can cause temporary bad breath or changes in taste.
- These symptoms may vary from person to person, but usually resolve on their own within 7-14 days. If symptoms last longer or recur frequently, a specialist should be consulted.
Types of Aphthae
Aphthae are divided into three main groups according to their size and course: small aphthae (minor aphthae), large aphthae (major aphthae) and herpes-like aphthae (herpetiform aphthae). Minor aphthae are smaller than 5 mm, superficial and heal quickly. Major canker sores can exceed 1 cm, affect deeper layers of tissue and can take weeks to heal. Herpetiform aphthae consist of multiple small lesions and tend to recur frequently.
Causes of Aphthae Formation
Although the exact cause of canker sores is unknown, genetic predisposition, immune system disorders and trauma to the oral mucosa are the main triggers. Accidental tissue damage during tooth brushing or friction of hard-edged foods can also predispose to canker sores. Certain medications, improper use of oral prostheses and hormonal changes can also play a role.
The Effect of Stress on Aphthae
High levels of stress suppress the immune system, weakening the body’s defense mechanisms against infections and injuries. This can lead to the formation of small lesions on the oral mucosa and prolong the healing process. Stress management techniques, regular sleep and relaxation exercises can help reduce the frequency and severity of canker sores. Psychological well-being therefore has a positive impact on oral health.
Methods That Can be Applied at Home in Aphthous Treatment
Simple home remedies include gargling with warm salt water, keeping the wound clean and avoiding irritating foods. Honey and aloe vera gel can relieve pain thanks to their antimicrobial and soothing properties. Over-the-counter mouthwashes or topical gels also support the wound healing process. Soft-bristled toothbrushes should be preferred to ensure oral hygiene.
Other Mouth Sores Not to be Confused With Canker Sores
It is important to distinguish aphthae from cold sores (herpes labialis), fungal infections (oral candidiasis) and warts. Cold sores usually appear as fluid-filled blisters on the edge of the lips and are caused by the herpes simplex virus. Fungal infections are characterized by white plaques and are usually adherent to the tongue or inner surface of the cheek. Warts are caused by the papilloma virus and have a rough surface.
What To do For Recurrent Canker Sores?
If aphthae occur several times a month or more frequently, there may be an underlying systemic condition or nutrient deficiency. Iron, vitamin B12 and folic acid levels should be checked and supplements used if necessary. Under the supervision of a doctor, immune modulatory therapies or oral corticosteroids may be considered. In addition, regular diet, stress management and oral hygiene should be emphasized.
Aphthae Formation in Children
Aphthae are common in children and are usually associated with the maturation of the immune system. Thin mucous membranes, consumption of hard foods or poor oral hygiene are also triggers. Children may have difficulty eating because of the pain and may lose their appetite. It is important that parents gently check oral hygiene and encourage the use of soft toothbrushes.
Aphthous Treatment in Children
Treatment of canker sores in children is primarily aimed at relieving pain and reducing the risk of infection. Saline mouthwash and rinsing the mouth with warm water is a safe first step. Over-the-counter topical gels or foams help to cover the tissue and reduce pain when eating. If there is fever, extreme pain or an increase in wound size, a pediatric dentist or pediatrician should be consulted.
Precautions for Aphthae Formation
A balanced diet, adequate vitamin and mineral intake and regular water consumption are essential to reduce the risk of canker sores. To maintain oral hygiene, a toothbrush with a soft brush and fluoride toothpaste should be used at least twice a day. Avoid hard, sharp-edged foods and pay attention to oral appliances such as braces. In addition, stress management, regular exercise and adequate sleep help prevent canker sores.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can take a look at the common questions asked by our patients and contact us for all other questions you are curious about.
No, canker sores are not a contagious disease. Aphthae are usually caused by internal causes such as immune system reactions, vitamin deficiencies or stress. They are not transmitted by contact with another person.
Yes, especially vitamin B12, folic acid and iron deficiency can cause canker sores. A deficiency of these vitamins leads to a weakening of the oral mucosa and sores can form more easily.
When the immune system is weakened, the body can find it difficult to repair minor irritations in the mouth. This can cause sores such as canker sores to appear more frequently and severely.
Aphthae formation may increase during pregnancy due to hormonal changes and sensitization of the immune system. This condition is usually temporary and resolves after delivery.
Yes, sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), a substance found in some toothpastes, can irritate the oral tissue and trigger canker sores. SLS-free toothpastes should be preferred.
Salt water mouthwash cleans the aphthae area, reducing the risk of infection and promoting healing. It can also have a pain-relieving effect.
