Common Causes And Risk Factors For Canker Sores

Hormonal Shifts

For women, hormonal shifts during menstruation may lead to the development of canker sores. Estrogen levels tend to be higher in the week before menstruation, and this can cause inflammation in the mouth. The gums may swell, and the mouth could be more sensitive than usual, increasing the risk of canker sores. The mouth's mucosal lining thickens during menstruation, which also increases the risk of canker sores. To keep the mouth comfortable during this time, patients should be very diligent about maintaining their dental hygiene routine, including flossing, brushing, and using mouthwash. It can help to avoid foods that could irritate the mouth such as pineapple, oranges, grapefruit, salty foods, nuts, and chips. Patients who get canker sores regularly before or during menstruation may want to speak to a dentist about pain-relieving mouth gels that could help. Some individuals might want to talk to a doctor to learn more about what can be done to reduce the impact of hormonal shifts.

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