Canker sores—those small, painful ulcers that form inside your mouth—are a common annoyance most people face at some point. They usually heal within a week or so, leaving only one uncomfortable week for eating. But what happens when a canker sore doesn’t go away? If you’re dealing with a sore that’s been hanging around for more than two weeks, it’s time to dig deeper and find our why it’s not healing—and what you can do about it.
What Are Canker Sores?
Typically, canker sores (also known as aphthous ulcers) disappear on their own within 7 to 10 days. However, if your sore has been lingering for more than two weeks, it’s considered persistent. These stubborn sores aren’t just painful; they can interfere with your daily activities, making it hard to eat, drink, or even speak comfortably.
Along with lasting longer, persistent canker sores may be larger or more inflamed than usual. They might cause pain that worsens over time, and sometimes, they can be accompanied by swelling or fever. If you’re noticing these additional symptoms, it’s time to take a closer look.
Common Causes of Persistent Canker Sores
So, why might your canker sore refuse to heal? Several factors could be at play, ranging from something as simple as a vitamin deficiency to more serious underlying health conditions.
Nutritional Deficiencies
A surprising number of persistent canker sores are linked to nutritional deficiencies, especially a lack of B vitamins (like B12), folate, iron, or zinc. These nutrients play a key role in maintaining healthy tissue, and when your body is running low, healing can be delayed. If your diet isn’t providing enough of these vitamins and minerals, it could be one of the reasons your sore is sticking around.
Underlying Medical Conditions
Sometimes, persistent sores can be a red flag for an underlying health issue. Conditions like Celiac disease, which affects how your body processes gluten, or Crohn’s disease, which causes inflammation in the digestive tract, can lead to recurring or long-lasting sores. Behçet’s disease, a rare autoimmune disorder, is another culprit that can cause severe mouth ulcers. In more serious cases, persistent canker sores can be associated with HIV/AIDS, where the immune system is compromised, making it harder for your body to heal.
Hormonal Changes
If you’re a woman, hormonal shifts might be to blame. Many women notice they develop canker sores during pregnancy or around their menstrual cycle due to fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels. These hormonal changes can affect your immune system and make you more prone to these painful ulcers.
Stress and Trauma
Let’s face it: life can be stressful, and so can those dental accidents we’ve all experienced—biting the inside of your cheek, scratching your gums with a rough toothbrush, or the constant irritation of braces. Both emotional stress and physical trauma are known triggers for canker sores, and they can also delay healing when they occur together.
Allergies and Sensitivities
Your canker sores might be reacting to something you’re eating—or even the products you’re using to care for your mouth. Allergic reactions to certain foods (like acidic fruits) or irritants in your toothpaste (especially sodium lauryl sulfate) can provoke persistent sores. Switching to a milder, SLS-free toothpaste could help.
Immune System Issues
Sometimes, persistent canker sores are a result of an overactive immune system, where your body’s defense mechanisms attack healthy cells in your mouth. This can slow down healing and make canker sores last longer than usual.
When to See a Doctor
If your canker sore lasts longer than two weeks, it’s definitely time to talk to a healthcare professional. Unusually large sores, sores that spread, or sores that keep coming back may point to something more serious. While rare, persistent sores could be a sign of oral cancer, so it’s crucial to get them checked out.
Your doctor might recommend further testing, such as a biopsy to rule out oral cancer or blood tests to check for vitamin deficiencies or immune system problems.
Treatment Options for Persistent Canker Sores
While waiting for a persistent canker sore to heal can feel like a slow process, there are several ways to help speed up recovery and manage the pain.
Over-the-Counter Treatments
For most canker sores, over-the-counter remedies can offer relief. Topical gels, pastes, and mouth rinses containing benzocaine or hydrocortisone can numb the pain and reduce inflammation. You can also take pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to manage the discomfort.
Prescription Treatments
If over-the-counter options aren’t cutting it, your doctor might prescribe stronger treatments. These can include prescription-strength corticosteroid creams or even immune-modulating medications in severe cases. These treatments can help reduce inflammation and promote healing.
Home Remedies and Lifestyle Changes
Some tried-and-true home remedies might help speed up the healing process. Saltwater or baking soda rinses can soothe the sore, reduce inflammation, and keep bacteria at bay. Adjusting your diet to include more iron-rich foods (like spinach) or B12 supplements can also help if your sores are linked to a deficiency.
If stress is a trigger for your canker sores, consider adding some stress management techniques into your routine. Yoga, meditation, or even just taking a few minutes each day to relax can make a big difference.
Laser Therapy
For persistent or particularly painful sores, some doctors offer laser therapy. This treatment uses a laser to remove the sore and promote faster healing. It can also help reduce pain immediately after the procedure.
Avoiding Triggers
Identifying and avoiding your personal triggers is one of the best ways to prevent future outbreaks. Keep track of foods, habits, or situations that tend to lead to a canker sore flare-up. For some, it’s as simple as avoiding spicy foods or switching to an SLS-free toothpaste.
Preventing Future Outbreaks
While it’s not always possible to avoid canker sores, there are steps to reduce the likelihood of them sticking around.
Nutritional Supplements
If a vitamin deficiency is to blame for your persistent sores, adding a daily multivitamin or targeted supplements like B12, folate, or iron may help prevent future outbreaks.
Oral Hygiene Habits
Switching to a gentle toothpaste that’s free from SLS and brushing your teeth carefully can reduce the risk of irritating your gums. Keep up with regular oral hygiene practices like flossing and using an antimicrobial mouthwash to keep your mouth healthy.
Stress Management
Since stress is a common trigger, finding ways to manage your stress levels can make a big difference. Whether it’s through exercise, deep breathing, or just taking time for yourself, stress management techniques can help prevent future flare-ups.
Canker Sore Treatment in Malaysia
Visit Dr. Prevents to Get Rid of Canker Sores
Persistent canker sores aren’t just annoying—they can be a sign of an underlying issue that needs attention. If your sore lasts more than two weeks, it’s important to get it checked out by a doctor to rule out more serious conditions. Visit Dr. Prevents today!