What Are the Causes of Oral Canker Sores?

Oral canker sores can be an embarrassing and painful condition that may result in difficulty with brushing your teeth and chewing and swallowing your food. The causes of oral canker sores include infections, certain medical conditions and lifestyle factors. Consider this information from the American Academy of Family Physicians and the Mayo Clinic about the causes of oral canker sores.

Acidic Foods

• Consuming acidic foods and beverages such as coffee, orange juice or tomatoes may irritate your mouth and result in oral canker sores.

Bacteria

• An infection with Helicobacter pylori in your mouth and digestive system may cause you to have canker sores in your mouth and ulcers in your stomach.

Digestive Diseases

• Diseases that cause inflammation of your digestive system, such as irritable bowel disease and Crohn's disease, may result in oral canker sores.

Injuries

• Injuries to or around your mouth, such as biting your cheek, getting hit while playing sports or having dental work, may cause oral canker sores.

Menstruation

• If your canker sores appear monthly along with your periods, they may be caused by hormone changes triggered by menstruation.

Mineral Deficiencies

• Oral canker sores may be caused by a lack of minerals including folate, iron, zinc, or vitamin B12 in your diet.

Stress

• Emotional stress from home, work or school may cause you to develop oral canker sores.