Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, are small, shallow lesions that develop on the soft tissues inside the mouth, including the cheeks, lips, tongue, and gums. These ulcers typically appear with a white or yellowish center and a distinct red border. While they are not contagious, many people wonder if these painful sores worsen before they begin to heal.
Understanding Canker Sore Development
A canker sore’s progression often leads to the perception that it worsens before improving. The process typically begins with a tingling or burning sensation in the affected area, which lasts for a few hours to a few days. Following this initial feeling, a small red bump forms at the site.
Within one to three days, this red bump breaks open, forming a painful, open ulcer. The pain commonly peaks during this open sore stage, which can feel like the condition is deteriorating.
This heightened pain is a normal part of the canker sore’s natural course. Most minor canker sores typically resolve on their own within one to two weeks, even without specific treatment. Larger or more severe sores, however, may take longer to heal, sometimes up to several weeks.
Soothing Symptoms and Aiding Recovery
While canker sores often heal on their own, several approaches can help manage discomfort and support the healing process. Rinsing the mouth with a solution of salt water or baking soda dissolved in warm water can provide relief by cleaning the area and easing discomfort.
Topical numbing gels or creams containing ingredients like benzocaine or lidocaine can be applied directly to the sore to temporarily reduce pain. Specialized canker sore covers or patches can also be placed over the ulcer to protect it from irritation. Applying a small amount of milk of magnesia to the sore or allowing ice chips to dissolve over it may also offer some comfort.
Avoiding certain foods can prevent further irritation and promote healing. Acidic, spicy, or abrasive foods, as well as very hot foods, can exacerbate the pain. Maintaining good oral hygiene, including gentle brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush and flossing, helps keep the mouth clean.
When to Consult a Doctor
While most canker sores are minor and resolve without medical intervention, certain situations warrant professional evaluation. Consult a doctor if a canker sore is unusually large or persists for more than two to three weeks without healing.
Seek medical attention if the sores are extremely painful and interfere significantly with eating or drinking. Also consult a doctor if new sores develop before old ones heal, if outbreaks become frequent, or if the sores spread.
Additionally, if canker sores are accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, diarrhea, or swollen lymph nodes, seek medical advice. A healthcare provider can confirm the diagnosis, rule out other conditions that might cause similar lesions, or prescribe stronger treatments if necessary.