Complicated Terms For Minor Illnesses

Aphthous Stomatitis

Aphthous stomatitis is the complicated term for a mouth ulcer or canker sore. These annoying and often painful sores are often seen on the gums, lips, inside the cheeks, and occasionally the gums. Unlike cold sores, which we know are caused by the herpes virus, there is some ambiguity as to what the precise cause of canker sores is. However, some potential triggers include mouth injuries due to cheek biting, dental work, hard brushing, and more. Others include certain oral hygiene products, some food sensitivities (such as acidic or spicy foods), a lack of certain vitamins or nutrients (such as iron, vitamin B12, and folate), as well as stress. It is also thought that some individuals are genetically predisposed to getting canker sores. Most affected individuals just suffer through the pain and eat on one side of their mouth, though there are ointments to help numb the sore. If it grows to be a very large ulcer, a canker sore can be surgically removed.

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