Definition of Canker sore:

A canker sore is a painful, open sore in the mouth. Canker sores are white or yellow and surrounded by a bright red area. They are not cancerous.

A canker sore is not the same as a fever blister (cold sore).

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Canker sores are a common form of mouth ulcer. They may occur with viral infections. In some cases, the cause cannot be determined.

Canker sores may also be linked to problems with the body's immune (defense) system. The sores may occur after a mouth injury due to dental work, aggressive tooth cleaning, or biting the tongue or cheek.

Canker sores can also be triggered by:

• Emotional stress
• Lack of certain vitamins and minerals in the diet (especially iron, folic acid, or vitamin B-12)
• Menstrual periods
• Hormonal changes
• Food allergies

Anyone can develop a canker sore. Women are more likely to get them than men. Canker sores may run in families.