Oral diseases: from the least serious to the most serious

Canker sores (burns)

Canker sores are small ulcers that appear inside the cheeks, lips and on the tongue. More rarely, they can be found on the palate or on the gums. Canker sores are not contagious and they are benign. They heal within two weeks.

What are the causes of mouth ulcers?

• Brushing much too aggressively
• Problems adapting a dental prosthesis
• A lesion caused by the chewing of a hard or acidic food
• An accidental bite during chewing
• A burn after consuming a hot beverage or food
• Ulceration caused by the needle during dental anesthesia
• Injuries related to the wearing of orthodontic appliances or a misplaced tooth
• Stress and fatigue
• Poor oral hygiene
• Quitting smoking
• Certain diseases (Crohn’s disease, Behçet’s disease)
• Taking certain medications (anti-inflammatory, antisteroidal, beta-blockers, antidepressants)
• Hormonal changes
• Radiation or chemotherapy