Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, are small, painful lesions that can develop on the soft tissues inside the mouth. These ulcers can appear in various locations, including the tongue, cheeks, lips, and at the base of the gums, making daily activities like eating and talking uncomfortable. They are a common oral condition, affecting a significant portion of the population at some point in their lives.
What Canker Sores Look Like on Gums
Canker sores on the gums typically present as round or oval-shaped ulcers. Their center often appears white, gray, or pale yellow, surrounded by a distinct red border of inflamed tissue. These sores can vary in size, from very small (less than 1 millimeter) to larger ones, sometimes reaching up to 1 inch in diameter. A tingling or burning sensation may precede the sore’s appearance by a day or two. Canker sores are not contagious and are distinct from cold sores, which are caused by the herpes simplex virus and typically appear outside the mouth, often around the lips.
How Long Canker Sores Last
The duration of canker sores on the gums varies, but most heal within one to two weeks. Pain usually subsides within a few days, even if the ulcer takes longer to fully resolve. Smaller canker sores (less than 1 centimeter in diameter) are the most common type and generally heal without scarring within this timeframe.
Larger or more severe canker sores can persist longer. These ulcers, exceeding 1 centimeter, may take several weeks, sometimes up to four to six weeks, to heal and can occasionally leave a scar. Herpetiform canker sores, appearing as clusters of tiny ulcers that may merge, typically heal within one to two weeks without scarring.
Healing time is influenced by the sore’s size, whether it’s a single lesion or multiple, and any ongoing irritation or trauma to the affected gum area. The healing process involves initial burning, followed by the yellow-gray ulcer with a red halo, and then healthy tissue closing over the sore as pain diminishes.
Managing Discomfort and When to See a Doctor
Managing the discomfort of canker sores on the gums involves simple measures. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help reduce pain and inflammation. Topical numbing gels containing ingredients like benzocaine can be applied directly to the sore for immediate pain relief. Rinsing the mouth with a saltwater solution (1 teaspoon of salt in half a cup of warm water) or an alcohol-free mouthwash can also provide relief and help keep the area clean. Avoiding irritating foods like acidic fruits, spicy dishes, or abrasive items can prevent further discomfort and support healing.
While most canker sores resolve without medical intervention, seeking professional medical attention is advisable in some instances. Consult a doctor or dentist if the canker sore is unusually large, persists for more than two weeks, or if new sores appear before older ones have healed. Seek medical advice if pain is severe and not controlled by self-care, if you experience difficulty eating or drinking, or if sores are accompanied by a high fever. In rare cases, persistent or recurring mouth sores can indicate underlying health conditions, such as nutritional deficiencies or certain systemic diseases, warranting a medical evaluation.