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Canker sore
Also called: aphthous ulcer

A small, shallow sore inside the mouth or at the base of the gums.

Very common
More than 3 million US cases per year

Usually self-treatable

Usually self-diagnosable

Lab tests or imaging not required

Short-term: resolves within days to weeks

Unlike a cold sore, a canker sore doesn't occur on the lips and isn't
contagious.
The main symptom is a painful sore in the mouth that can make it hard to
eat and talk.
Most canker sores clear on their own in one to two weeks. Treatments, if
needed, include mouth rinses, pastes, and medication.

Ages affected
0-2
3-5
6-13
14-18
19-40
41-60
60+

Symptoms

Usually self-diagnosable
The main symptom is a painful sore in the mouth that can make it hard to
eat and talk.

People may experience:


Pain areas: in the mouth
Also common: mouth ulcer

Treatments

Treatment consists of local anesthetics


Most canker sores clear on their own in one to two weeks. Treatments, if
needed, include mouth rinses, pastes, and medication.

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Medications
Anesthetic: Blocks pain at and near the site where it's given, or along the nerve
that's blocked.
Lidocaine (Anecream, Akten, Topicaine, Eha, and Lidocaine Viscous)
Benzocaine (Anbesol, Boil-Ease (benzocaine), Chloraseptic Sore Throat,
Orabase (benzocaine), and Cepacol Sore Throat (benz-men))
Steroid: Modifies or simulates hormone effects, often to reduce inflammation or for
tissue growth and repair.
Fluocinonide in orabase
Triamcinolone acetonide
Anti-Inflammatory: Prevents or counteracts swelling (inflammation) in joints and
tissues.
Amlexanox

Specialists
Pediatrician: Provides medical care for infants, children, and teenagers.
Primary care provider (PCP): Prevents, diagnoses, and treats diseases.
Dentist: Specializes in diseases of the oral cavity, especially the teeth.

Consult a doctor for medical advice

Note: The information you see describes what usually happens with a medical condition, but
doesn't apply to everyone. This information isn't medical advice, so make sure to contact a
healthcare provider if you have a medical problem. If you think you may have a medical
emergency, call your doctor or a emergency number immediately.
Sources: Mayo Clinic and others. Learn more

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