Surprisingly, canker sores (mouth ulcers) are quite common. In fact, nearly 20% of the population suffers from these oral ulcers. Yet, almost everybody suffers in silence.

The first canker sores usually occur between the ages of 10 and 20. During life, episodes usually, but not always, become less frequent and less severe. Interestingly, women often report increased susceptibility to canker sore formation during certain times of their menstrual cycle.

Usually canker sores (mouth ulcers) clear within 7-14 days without treatment. During this time, however, the canker sores can be painful, especially when people eat or drink.

Interestingly, canker sores (mouth ulcers) affect people with varying degrees of severity. Some people may get an occasional outbreak of canker sores once or twice a year, while others may suffer near continuous overlapping episodes of canker sores (mouth ulcers).

The exact cause of canker sores is unknown. Current theories suggest that canker sores are created when the body's own immune system attacks the cells lining the inside of the mouth.

While the exact cause is unknown, it has been observed that certain "triggers" intitiate the formation of canker sores. These triggers include trauma to the inside of the mouth, an ingredient found in almost all toothpastes, certain foods, a lack of particular vitamins, and stress.

The elimination of these triggers is the key to wiping out canker sores, once and for all..