What Causes Canker Sores?

If you're reading this then you most likely know about canker sores all too well. Also known as mouth ulcers, these sores can be a real pain to say the least. What causes canker sores anyway? Let's take a closer look at some of the more common reasons that these lip sores breakout.

Toothpaste and Mouthwash - Believe it or not, your toothpaste could be what causes canker sores in your mouth. If it contains SLS, or sodium lauryl sulfate, then your toothpaste can create a higher rate of canker sores.

SLS has a drying effect on the inside of your lips and gums. This makes the tissues on these areas much more accessible to acids found in many foods and drinks.

The health studies with SLS have proven that using toothpastes that do not contain SLS resulted in far fewer canker sores than the toothpastes that do. Want to reduce your chances of getting a canker sore on your gums or lips? Get yourself a toothpaste that doesn't contain SLS.

Stress - This causes so many different health problems, with canker sores being just one of them. If you've recently had a canker sore, think back to when it started and whether or not you were under stress at the time. Chances are you were.

Nutrition - Another big factor in what causes canker sores is what we eat. Research has shown that being deficient in Vitamin B-1, B-6, B-12, and Vitamin C, helps in the formation of canker sores. In addition, not enough zinc, folic acid or iron in your body does the same thing.

Hormones - For many women, going through their monthly menstrual cycle has been shown to cause more canker sores than at other times.

Trauma - If you've bitten your lip, or had a food with a sharp edge irritate your lip or gums, this will many times be the cause for a canker sore forming.

Food Allergies - Allergic reactions to certain foods have shown to be canker sore triggers. Some of these foods include milk, cheese, oranges, apples, tomatoes, cereals, nuts, chocolate, and many more in addition.

Certain medical conditions and medications have also shown to be causes for canker sores. Even your genetics can play a role in these mouth ulcers.