Aphthae are small, round or oval-shaped sores that usually appear inside the mouth, on the lips, tongue or inner cheek surfaces. These sores are usually yellow or white in color and red around them. Aphthae can be caused by viral infections, stress, hormonal changes, genetic factors or allergies to certain foods. Aphthae usually heal within a few days, but large or recurrent aphthae can be a sign of a more serious health problem.
Aphtha Treatment
Various methods are used in the treatment of canker sores to relieve pain and speed up the healing process. While there is no specific treatment for canker sores, over-the-counter pain relief gels, antiseptic mouthwashes or steroid creams can be used to relieve pain. If canker sores recur frequently or are severe, it is important to talk to a health professional.
Aphthous Prevention Methods
A few simple steps can be taken to prevent canker sores from forming. These include regular oral care, avoiding hard foods that can irritate the inside of the mouth and stress management. It is also important to be aware of food allergies or intolerances that can lead to canker sores. If canker sores recur, it may be helpful to identify and avoid trigger foods.
Aphthae and Nutrition
Eating habits and diet can have a major impact on canker sores. In particular, a deficiency of B12, iron and folic acid can lead to canker sores. Therefore, a balanced and adequate diet is important to prevent canker sores. It is also known that certain foods can cause canker sores. Aphthae caused by foods such as chocolate, coffee, spicy foods, tomatoes and gluten can vary from person to person. Therefore, it is recommended to identify the foods that cause canker sores and avoid these foods.
Aphthae and Hygiene
Oral hygiene plays a critical role in preventing canker sores. Regular brushing, flossing and mouth rinsing with antiseptic mouthwashes can prevent canker sores by reducing the number of bacteria in the mouth. However, some ingredients in oral hygiene products can also cause canker sores. For example, toothpastes containing sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) can trigger canker sores. Therefore, it is recommended that people with canker sores use SLS-free toothpastes.
Aphthae and Stress
Stress is an important factor in the formation of aphthae. Stress can weaken the body's immune system, causing bacteria and viruses in the mouth to multiply. This can lead to the formation of canker sores. Therefore, practicing stress management techniques is important to prevent canker sores. Yoga, meditation, walking and other relaxation techniques can help reduce stress.
Aphthae and Hormonal Changes
Hormonal changes can also affect canker sores. Especially in women, hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle can cause the formation of aphthae. Aphthae formation can also be observed during periods of intense hormonal changes such as menopause and pregnancy. Healthy nutrition and regular oral care are important to prevent canker sores during these periods.
Aphthae and Genetics
Genetic factors can also influence canker sores. Research shows that canker sores can run in families. If you have a family history of canker sores, it means that you may also be predisposed to canker sores. In this case, you may need to take extra precautions to prevent canker sores.
Constant Recurrence of Aphthae
Aphthae usually heal within a few days and do not cause any serious health problems. However, if canker sores recur frequently or take a long time to heal, it may be a sign of a more serious health problem. Especially large aphthae can be a symptom of serious health problems such as Behcet's disease, Crohn's disease or HIV. It is therefore important to talk to a health professional about aphthae that recur frequently or do not heal.
While canker sores are usually harmless, they can affect quality of life and make daily activities difficult. A balanced diet, regular oral care and stress management are important to prevent canker sores. However, if canker sores recur frequently, take a long time to heal or are large, this may be a sign of a more serious health problem. In this case, it is important to talk to a health professional and have the necessary tests done. Remember, since canker sores can be a sign of a health problem, it is important to be careful and seek professional help when necessary.