Do you have canker sores? Symptoms and treatments you need to know.

Canker Sores in Ontario

Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, are a common oral condition affecting many people across Ontario each year. So what causes canker sores? While the exact cause is not fully understood, canker sores can develop due to factors such as stress, minor mouth injuries, certain foods, hormonal changes, vitamin deficiencies, or underlying medical conditions.

Symptoms of Canker Sores

The most common symptoms of canker sores include:

• Small, round or oval ulcers inside the mouth

• White or yellow center with a red border

• Pain or discomfort, especially when eating, drinking, or speaking

• Tingling or burning sensation before the sore appears

• Swelling of the affected area in some cases

• Rarely, fever or swollen lymph nodes if multiple or severe sores occur

Canker sores typically heal within 7–14 days, but treatment can help reduce discomfort and speed up healing.

Preventing Canker Sores

There are several steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing canker sores:

• Avoid irritating foods: Spicy, acidic, or abrasive foods can trigger or worsen sores.

• Maintain good oral hygiene: Gentle brushing and flossing can prevent injury and reduce bacterial buildup.

• Manage stress: Stress management techniques may reduce the frequency of outbreaks.

• Check for nutritional deficiencies: Ensuring adequate intake of vitamins can help prevent sores.

• Avoid mouth trauma: Be careful with sharp foods or accidental bites that may injure the inside of the mouth.

Treatment of Canker Sores in Ontario

If you develop canker sores that are particularly painful, recurrent, or slow to heal, it’s important to seek treatment. If you’ve had canker sores before and notice symptoms returning, you can contact a pharmacist through RxToday.ca to speak with a pharmacist for a virtual assessment in Ontario.

A pharmacist may recommend or prescribe treatments you can use at home, such as topical anesthetics, protective pastes, or mouth rinses to reduce pain and inflammation. In some cases, prescription medications may be advised for frequent or severe sores. Your pharmacist can also guide you on when to seek further evaluation from a physician or dentist.