Your child complains that their mouth hurts, and there it is again—a small, painful sore inside their cheek or lip. Canker sores are common in children, but when they keep coming back, it's natural to wonder what's causing them. Is it something they're eating? Their toothpaste? Or could it be something else entirely?
What Are Canker Sores?
Canker sores, also called aphthous ulcers, are small, round sores that develop on the soft tissues inside the mouth. They typically have a white or yellowish center surrounded by a red border. Although harmless in most cases, they can make eating, drinking, and brushing teeth surprisingly uncomfortable.
Unlike cold sores, which are caused by a virus, canker sores are not contagious, not viral or bacterial, and usually heal on their own within one to two weeks. Treatment requires mostly patience as antibiotics and antiviral medications are ineffective. Topical creams can be helpful in easing pain, but not in prevention or healing.
Why Does My Child Keep Getting Them?
Interestingly, there's no single known cause. Several factors may contribute to recurring canker sores, including:
• Minor injuries: Cheek biting, aggressive brushing, or irritation from braces.
• Certain foods: Acidic or spicy foods may trigger or aggravate sores.
• Toothpaste: Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), a common foaming ingredient, may contribute to irritation in some children.
• Stress: Emotional stress and hormonal changes can sometimes play a role.
• Nutritional deficiencies: Low levels of vitamin B12, folate, or iron have been linked to recurring sores.
How Can You Help?
Most canker sores heal without treatment. In the meantime, encourage softer foods, avoid acidic or spicy snacks, and use a soft-bristled toothbrush. Your pediatric dentist may also recommend topical treatments to ease discomfort.
If sores are unusually large, appear frequently, or last longer than two weeks, it's worth having them evaluated. In severe cases, we can use laser treatments, systemic prescription medications, or dietary evaluations to help identify causes and alleviate pain.
Have questions about recurring mouth sores? The team at Heights Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics is always happy to help keep your child's smile healthy and comfortable.
