Canker Sore Causes
Filed Under Canker and Cold Sores |
Exactly how canker sores form is unclear. However, it appears that they are caused by a person’s own immune response. Canker sores form when a person’s immune system responds to unidentified chemicals. Lymphocytes (a variety of white blood cell) rush to attack the unidentified “invader”.
The canker sore is the result of our own antibodies ravaging the tender tissues of the gums and cheeks. Several “triggers” may precipitate such attacks:
Toothpastes and mouthwashes that contain SLS.
Research suggests that products containing sodium lauryl sulfate (”SLS”), a foaming agent in toothpastes and mouthwashes, may increase the recurrence rate of canker sores. SLS dries oral tissues, making them vulnerable to irritants.
Several studies show that participants who brush with an SLS-free toothpaste reduce the frequency of canker sore recurrence, in one study by as much as 81%. In this same study some of the participants reported that using SLS-free toothpaste also reduced canker sore severity.
Injury
Injury, often from a self-inflicted bite or irritation caused by braces, often precipitates canker sores. 38% of the participants of one study felt that their canker sores were precipitated by trauma.
Stress
Many people who suffer from canker sores often report that the ulcers coincide with periods of stress.
Nutritional Deficiencies
Some people (although not all) who suffer from canker sores may have a nutritional deficiency. Some of the nutritional deficiencies correlated with the presence of canker sores are:
Vitamins: B1, B2, B6, B12, C
Other nutrients: zinc, folic acid, iron, selenium, calcium
Allergies
Since canker sores are caused by our bodies’ immune response, it makes sense that they can be triggered by food allergies. Any substance that contacts the oral tissues may lead to an overzealous immune response.
Some potential food triggers for canker sore outbreaks are:
Cereal grains: buckwheat, wheat, oats, rye, barley, the gluten protein found in grains
Sugar: Chewing gum and lozenges are especially bad.
Fruits and vegetables: lemons, oranges, pineapples, apples, figs, tomatoes, strawberries
Other foods: nuts, chocolate, shellfish, soy, vinegar, French mustard
Drugs
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), beta blockers, and chemotherapy may increase the frequency of canker sores
Genetics
One study found that 35% of those persons who get canker sores have at least one parent who suffers from them. Another study found that 91% of identical twins both suffered from canker sores while only 57% of fraternal twins did.
Medical Conditions
Behcet’s disease, neutrophil dysfunction diseases, inflammatory bowel diseases (celiac and Cohn’s), HIV-AIDS, and some other conditions may be correlated with canker sores.
Reference: Quantum Health Products, 2007
