Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, are common, painful open sores that develop inside the mouth. These ulcers are typically white or yellow with a bright red border. They are not contagious, meaning they cannot be spread through contact. Canker sores can appear on various soft tissues within the mouth, including the tongue.
Identifying Canker Sores on Your Tongue
Canker sores on the tongue begin as small, red bumps that develop into open ulcers. They are usually round or oval, with a white or yellowish center surrounded by a distinct red border. These lesions often measure less than 10 millimeters in diameter, though larger ones can occur. On the tongue, canker sores frequently appear on the sides, tip, or underside.
Before the sore fully develops, a person might experience a tingling or burning sensation in the affected area. Once present, canker sores on the tongue can cause significant pain and soreness, which may worsen when eating salty, spicy, or acidic foods. This discomfort can make common activities like eating, drinking, or speaking challenging.
Canker sores differ from cold sores. Canker sores form exclusively inside the mouth, while cold sores typically appear outside the mouth, around the lips. Unlike cold sores, which are caused by the highly contagious herpes simplex virus, canker sores are not viral or contagious. Cold sores often present as fluid-filled blisters that can appear in clusters, while canker sores are usually single, shallow ulcers.
Understanding Triggers and Finding Relief
While the exact cause of canker sores is not fully understood, several factors can trigger their appearance. Minor injuries to the mouth, such as accidentally biting the tongue, aggressive toothbrushing, or irritation from dental work, can lead to canker sores. Certain foods, particularly those that are acidic, spicy, or abrasive, can also irritate the mouth’s tissues and trigger these ulcers.
Stress is a common factor associated with canker sore outbreaks. Nutritional deficiencies, specifically a lack of vitamin B12, iron, folic acid, or zinc, have been linked to their development. Some individuals also find that toothpastes and mouth rinses containing sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), a foaming agent, can contribute to canker sores or irritate existing ones. Studies suggest that switching to an SLS-free toothpaste might reduce the frequency and severity of these ulcers for some individuals.
Several over-the-counter remedies are available for pain management and healing. Topical anesthetics containing ingredients like benzocaine or lidocaine can numb the area, providing temporary pain relief when applied directly to the sore. Oral rinses, such as those with hydrogen peroxide or prescribed solutions containing dexamethasone, can help keep the area clean and reduce inflammation. Home care strategies include rinsing the mouth with warm salt water, which may help dry out the sores. Avoiding irritating foods, practicing good oral hygiene with a soft-bristled toothbrush, and staying hydrated also support the healing process.
Most canker sores heal on their own within one to two weeks. However, seek medical advice if the canker sores are unusually large, persist for two weeks or more, or recur frequently. Seek medical advice if sores are accompanied by symptoms such as fever, difficulty eating or drinking, or if new sores appear before old ones heal. These instances may indicate an underlying condition requiring further evaluation.