What is Aphthous ulcer/Canker sore?
An aphthous ulcer (also called a canker sore) is a common, painful ulcer that occurs inside the mouth — on the inner cheeks, lips, tongue, or soft palate. 🦷 In Dentistry: It’s one of the most frequent oral mucosal lesions seen by dentists. --- 🔍 Features: Shape: Round or oval Center: Yellow or white Border: Red, inflamed margin Size: Usually small (less than 1 cm) Pain: Quite painful, especially during eating or brushing --- ⚕️ Types: 1. Minor aphthous ulcer: Most common Heals in 7–10 days without scarring 2. Major aphthous ulcer: Larger, deeper, may last several weeks May leave a scar 3. Herpetiform ulcer: Multiple small ulcers that may merge together --- 🧠 Causes / Triggers: Stress or emotional tension Nutritional deficiencies (iron, vitamin B12, folic acid) Trauma (e.g., biting the cheek, brushing injury) Hormonal changes Certain foods (acidic or spicy foods) Allergic reactions Genetic predisposition Sometimes associated with systemic diseases (e.g., Crohn’s, Behçet’s) --- ?...
