Just the mention of canker sores makes one wrinkle his or her nose at the thought of the pain associated with these mouth sores. If the medical research data is to be believed, nearly 30 to 40 percent of American population suffers from these once in their lifetime. These sores appear in the form of small shallow ulcers that make it difficult to eat or talk for the person suffering from it. However, do not confuse these with cold sores that one usually gets during fever.

Canker sores are most commonly caused due to bacterial infections, hormonal disorders, stress or food allergies and have a tendency to recur every few months. You can however reduce their frequency by cutting out acidic or spicy food from your diet, which cause irritation in your mouth. It is also advisable to use a soft-bristled brush after meals and flossing on a daily basis. Lastly, avoid chewing gum as it may trigger a canker sore.