Health Encyclopedia

Canker Sores of the Mouth

Canker Sores of the Mouth

Canker sores of the mouth

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Canker sores (aphthous stomatitis) are painful white ulcers in the mouth. They appear most often on the tongue, inside the cheeks, and inside the lips. Unlike cold sores, canker sores are not contagious, but in some people they keep coming back. Canker sores cause pain that may make it difficult to speak or eat.

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Arden Christen, DDS, MSD, MA, FACD - Dentistry
Last Revised September 14, 2012

Last Revised: September 14, 2012

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine & Arden Christen, DDS, MSD, MA, FACD - Dentistry

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