Canker Sores (Aphthous Ulcers)

In a study of 15 patients, 7 patients responded completely and two partially to diets excluding gluten (3 patients), azo compounds (3), milk (2), azo and milk (1).  Two failed to respond and three failed to complete the diet.  Responses were confirmed by re-challenge.  The patients in this study had relatively severe aphthous ulcers.  Gluten enteropathy had been excluded by biopsy in the patients who responded to the gluten-free diet. [B Med J 1986; 292: pp.1237-8]

Vitamin B12, folate, zinc and iron have been shown to be effective in up to 60% of patients with canker sores when such a vitamin or mineral deficiency has been documented. [Dermatologic Clinics 1996:14, pp.243-256, British Dental Journal 1985:159, pp.361-367]

Crohn's disease causes inflammation of the gut, leading to ulcers developing in both the stomach and mouth.

Any condition that attacks or suppresses the body's immune system can cause you to develop mouth ulcers.

Tissue damaged by canker sores has demonstrated an enhanced recovery rate with adequate zinc intake.  Total prevention or reduced frequency also occurs when zinc is supplemented in those with zinc deficiency.

Vitamin B12, folate, zinc and iron have been shown to be effective in up to 60% of patients with canker sores when such a vitamin or mineral deficiency has been documented. [Dermatologic Clinics 1996:14, pp.243-256, British Dental Journal 1985:159, pp.361-367]

Vitamin B12, folate, zinc and iron have been shown to be effective in up to 60% of patients with canker sores when such a vitamin or mineral deficiency has been documented. [Dermatologic Clinics 1996:14, pp.243-256, British Dental Journal 1985:159, pp.361-367]

Foods including wheat, oranges, tomatoes, chocolate, nuts, eggplant, tea and cola were dietary allergens that have been found to trigger ulcer initiation.  A study by Dr. Pelin Gürdal conducted in a dental university in Turkey concluded from previous studies [Oral Surg. 1984:57, pp.504-507] and his own that as many as 50% of RAS patients will improve when offending foods are identified and eliminated.  Without laboratory testing or patient insights, identifying these foods for individual sufferers can be challenging.  Food allergies continue to be a controversial cause of canker sores, and further research is necessary to resolve the issue.

Mouth or nose ulcers have been reported by between 12% and 30% of lupus patients, depending on the study.  They most often occur in the mouth on the hard or soft palate but may also be found on the nasal septum.

Some nutritionally-oriented physicians and dentists recommend taking lysine during an outbreak of canker sores to speed healing.  However, there have been almost no clinical trials using lysine as a remedy for canker sores.  Take 1,000mg L-lysine three times a day with meals while a canker sore is present.  Reduce the dose to 500mg three times a day for one week following healing.  Take 1,000mg L-lysine three times a day with meals while a canker sore is present.  Reduce the dose to 500mg three times a day for one week following healing.

For acute treatment, DGL (de-glycerrizinated licorice root) topically may prove to be of benefit.  A mixture of DGL and warm water applied to the inside of the mouth may shorten the healing time for mouth ulcers.  This DGL mixture is made by combining 200mg of powdered DGL and 1 cup or less (250ml) of warm water.  Swish in the mouth for 2 to 3 minutes twice per day for one week.  The use of ordinary licorice root powder may provide benefit also. [J Assoc Physicians India 1989; 37: p.647]

Acidophilus/bifidus consumption has been found to be useful for the prevention of canker sores in some individuals.  Topical use, by chewing lactobacillus tablets several times each day, may also reduce the soreness in some cases. [CIBA Clin Symposia 1967;19: pp.38-64, Oral Surg 1970;30: pp.196-200]

It may be a good idea to avoid toothpaste that contains sodium lauryl sulfate because it breaks up a protective barrier on the teeth and gums, which results in a greater frequency of ulcers.  The frequency was reduced in one study by 67%.  It is hard to find a toothpaste without it, but people with canker sores should make the effort if the problem does not resolve by other means.  Weleda pharmacy in New York manufactures such a toothpaste, and other varieties can generally be found in health food stores.