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What Causes Canker Sores on the Tonsils?

Canker sores on the tonsils are caused by allergies to foods or other products that are ingested, such as ingredients in toothpastes or medicines. Canker sores are not contagious.

  1. Significance

    • Because canker sores are not the result of viral or bacterial infections, the individual with the canker sores on her tonsils can be assured of not passing the sores to another person.

    Features

    • A canker sore on the tonsils is round or oval shaped, covered with a grayish membrane, and encircled by a reddish, halo-like ring.

    Size

    • Canker sores, which are mouth ulcers, are usually no larger than 1/4 inch in diameter but can grow up to the size of a quarter.

    Time Frame

    • Canker sores on the tonsils can take from 4 days to about 2 weeks to heal, but they can recur every 1 to 3 months in most individuals.

    Prevention/Solution

    • To prevent a canker sore or keep it from recurring, it's recommended to practice good oral hygiene and keep the mouth clean.

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