Causes of canker sores include stress, trauma, allergies, hormonal and endocrine alterations, dietary components like acidic foods and juices, and foods containing gluten. Canker sores are called Recurrent Aphthous Stomatitis. They can be treated with topical steroids prescribed by the dentist or doctor. The small RAS will go away in seven to 14 days with increased rest, reduced stress and not eating acidic foods. Basically, you allow your immune system to correct the problem.
People sometimes get ulcers which are larger than one-half inch in diameter.
These do require steroid treatment right away and they may last for weeks or months. The RAS usually oc-cur singly or in groups. When you get a canker sore, a topical anesthetic like Ambesol will take care of the pain until the ulcer heals up.