Recurrent aphthous stomatitis

[Sommer]

Recurrent aphthous stomatitis (canker sores, or aphthous ulcers) is the presence of small, painful sores (ulcers) inside the mouth that typically begin in childhood and recur frequently.

Mouth injury, stress, and some foods may trigger an attack.
People feel burning pain, and a day or so later a canker sore develops on the soft tissue of the mouth.
Doctors or dentists make the diagnosis based on the pain and the appearance of the canker sores.
Treatment is with mouth rinses and sometimes corticosteroids.

(See also Mouth Sores and Inflammation.)
Recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS) is very common. The cause is unclear but probably involves multiple factors, including disorders or abnormal function of the immune system, exposure to preservatives and toothpaste ingredients, and a genetic predisposition. RAS usually begins in childhood, and 80% of people with RAS are