What Are Canker Sores?
Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, are small, shallow ulcers that develop inside the mouth, most commonly on the inside of the lips, cheeks, tongue, or gums. They can be painful, especially when eating, drinking, brushing your teeth, or speaking.
Unlike cold sores, canker sores are not contagious and do not occur on the outside of the lips.
Why Canker Sores Happen
Canker sores are a common condition that can affect people of all ages, although they are more frequently seen in adolescents and young adults. The exact cause is not always clear, but they may be triggered by minor mouth injuries, stress, hormonal changes, certain foods, nutritional deficiencies, or underlying medical conditions. Some people experience only occasional sores, while others develop them more frequently.
Canker sores typically heal on their own within one to two weeks, but the pain can make everyday activities such as eating, drinking, and speaking uncomfortable. Over-the-counter gels, rinses, and pain relief products are available, however it can be difficult to know which treatment is likely to provide the greatest benefit.
Most uncomplicated canker sores respond well to appropriate treatment and supportive care. Early assessment can help relieve discomfort, promote healing, and identify situations where further medical evaluation may be needed.
How Our Pharmacists Can Help
Our pharmacists can assess your symptoms and help determine whether your mouth sore is most consistent with a canker sore or whether another condition may be responsible. During your consultation, we’ll ask about your symptoms, how long the sore has been present, whether you’ve had similar sores before, any recent injuries to your mouth, your medical history, and any medications you take.
Rather than choosing a product based on the packaging alone, we will recommend the treatment that best matches your symptoms. Depending on your assessment, this may include self-care advice, over-the-counter products, or prescription medication when appropriate. We’ll also explain how to use your treatment correctly and discuss practical strategies that may help reduce irritation and support healing.
If your symptoms suggest that additional medical assessment is needed, such as large or persistent ulcers, unusually frequent episodes, or sores that may have another underlying cause, we’ll help ensure you receive the appropriate follow-up care.
Personalized Care for Faster Relief
Painful mouth sores can interfere with simple everyday activities and make eating or drinking less enjoyable. Receiving the right treatment early can help reduce discomfort and support healing so you can return to your normal routine more quickly.
At Wellness Point Pharmacy, our pharmacists provide personalized care based on your symptoms and individual health needs. We’ll take the time to answer your questions, explain your treatment options, and recommend practical measures to help keep your mouth comfortable while the ulcer heals.
Our goal is not only to relieve your current symptoms but also to help identify potential triggers when sores occur repeatedly. If appropriate, we can discuss lifestyle measures or other factors that may help reduce the likelihood of future episodes.
Speak to Our Pharmacist Before Reaching for the Shelf
If you have a painful mouth sore or think you may have a canker sore, don’t guess which product is right for you.
Before reaching for an over-the-counter treatment, speak with one of our pharmacists. Walk in to Wellness Point Pharmacy, give us a call, or book an appointment online. We’ll assess your symptoms, recommend the most appropriate treatment, and help you find relief as quickly as possible.
