Canker Sore on Tongue: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments

Canker sores on the tongue medically known as aphthous ulcers are petite, shallow lesions that develop on the soft tissues inside your mouth, including the tongue. Unlike cold sores on the tongue, canker sores aren’t contagious and don’t occur on the surface of your lips. Although these sores might be painful and irritating, they are innocuous and usually clear up independently. The blog will cover canker sores on the tongue, their symptoms, causes, and treatments. This aims to help anybody dealing with this relatively common oral health issue.

Symptoms of Canker Sores on the Tongue

Characteristically, ulcers on the tongue are accompanied by some typical symptoms that may vary in intensity from one individual to another. Watching out for these symptoms can help detect the condition early and seek proper care.

1. Small, Round, or Oval Lesions:

Most canker sores on the side of the tongue commence as minute, either round or oval, areas that appear white, yellow, or grey. They are surrounded by a red ring around them, which is an inflamed border.

2. Pain and Discomfort:

The pain from canker sores may be very high, mainly when they are located at the tip of the tongue. Typically, this pain increases during eating, drinking, or speaking.

3. Burning or Tingling Sensation:

There might be a burning or tingling feeling where the sore is about to appear. This is generally the first sign that a sore is developing.

4. Difficulty Speaking or Swallowing:

This can cause a problem in speaking or swallowing due to the pain and position of the sores. This is mainly the case when a sore on the sides or tip of the tongue develops as they frequently come into contact with the teeth.

5. Swelling:

Sometimes, the tissue surrounding the sore becomes inflamed, contributing to suffering and irritation.

6. Multiple Sores:

Multiple canker sores can be present at the same time, which could lead to symptoms and discomfort.

Causes of Canker Sores on the Tongue

While the exact cause of canker sores is still mysterious, several factors have been pinpointed as contributors. By understanding these potential causes, you can help prevent future outbreaks.

1. Injury or Trauma:

Trauma to the tongue by accidental bites, vigorous brushing, or even irritation from dental appliances like braces may result in ulcers on the tongue.

2. Nutritional Deficiencies:

Canker sores have in fact been related to deficits in a number of vitamins and minerals, most notably vitamin B12, zinc, folate, and iron. Such nutrients are related to the health of tissues in the mouth.

3. Food Sensitivities:

Some individuals may develop canker sore on the side of the tongue due to a food reaction. The most common foods that trigger these sores are foods high in acidity, including citrus fruits, tomatoes, and strawberries. Or some spicy and sharp foods and chocolate do the trick.

4. Stress and Hormonal Changes:

One of the very prominent causes of cold sores on the tongue is emotional stress, which may happen in people before their periodic menstruation; hormonal changes are also a known cause.

5. Immune System Issues:

This, therefore, means that canker sores are more frequent in people with conditions that weaken the immune system, like autoimmune diseases. Also, it can involve a significant frequency in people who have a condition like celiac disease or Crohn’s disease.

6. Allergies and Sensitivities:

Allergic reactions to some oral care products, particularly toothpaste and mouthwash containing SLS, are said to be associated with ulcers on the tongue.

7. Genetic Predisposition:

You are more likely to develop canker sores if you have a positive family history of the condition, thus suggesting genetic inheritance.

Canker sore on tongue treatment

While canker sores usually heal in a week or two without treatment, several canker sores on tongue treatments are available to help subdue these symptoms and speed up the process.

1. Topical Treatments:

OTC ointments, gels, and creams can be applied directly to the canker sore. These products generally contain benzocaine, hydrogen peroxide, or other ingredients that cure one’s pain, decrease swelling, and do different things to heal the sores as quickly as possible.

2. Mouth Rinses:

Antimicrobial mouthwashes have the potential to control infection and decrease irritation. One can similarly rinse with warm water mixed with salt or baking soda to relieve the sore.

3. Oral Medications:

In cases of severe pain, one can use over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to treat the pain. Your dentist or doctor may prescribe a corticosteroid lozenge or sometimes a medicated mouthwash to lessen swelling in more persistent cases.

4. Avoiding Irritants:

During healing, avoid spicy, acidic, or crunchy foods and drinks that may irritate the sore.

5. Nutritional Supplements:

In case of canker sores caused by nutritional deficiencies, taking vitamin or mineral supplements as your doctor advises may help prevent further outbreaks.

6. Laser Therapy:

Some dentists use lasers to treat canker sores, making them stop hurting immediately and allowing the sore to heal faster.

7. Stress Management:

Because it is a proven trigger for stress, activities that reduce stress like exercise, meditation, or yoga significantly reduce the frequency of canker sores.

8. Proper Oral Hygiene:

Maintaining proper dental hygiene is crucial to avoiding canker sores. However, one can lessen this irritation by using a soft-bristle toothbrush and avoiding SLS toothpaste.

When to See a Doctor

While most canker sores are benign and heal on their own, there may be times when it is best to get professional advice. It’s usually best to see a doctor or dentist if:

• The sore is very large or spreading.
• You experience severe pain that doesn’t get better with non-prescription treatments.
• The ulcer remains for more than two weeks without healing or improvement. And develop a fever or a general feeling of being unwell, which may indicate an infection.
• You’re having frequent canker sores that are bothering you a lot.

Conclusion

While extremely painful and quite a nuisance, cold sores in the tongue are not usually a cause for serious concern. It will also enable you to cope with and prevent these frustrating sores by knowing their symptoms, identifying the possible causes, and exploring treatments available. If you are annoyed by the appearance of recurrent sores, you may consult a health professional to rule out any general condition or get personalized advice regarding prevention and treatment.

At best, you can prevent canker sores by living healthy and caring for your teeth and mouth. Control the stress as well. After all, although common, canker sores don’t have to be a constant companion in your life.