Health Tip: Dealing With Canker Sores

(HealthDay News) -- Canker sores are painful blisters that often appear on the inside of the cheeks or lips, under the tongue, or on the gums. They affect people most frequently during their teenage years and into their 20s, and tend to affect women more than men.

The American Academy of Family Physicians says that stress, menstrual cycles, poor diet or food allergies may trigger canker sores in some people.

The AAFP offers these suggestions to help prevent them:

• Stay away from toothpastes and mouthwashes that contain irritating ingredients.
• Avoid chewing gum and very hard, crunchy or spicy food.
• Keep your mouth clean by flossing regularly and brushing after every meal.

-- Diana Kohnle

Last Updated: Nov. 14, 2006

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