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GlossaryMouth Sores

small, painful lesions inside the mouth, often called canker sores

Mouth sores, also known as canker sores or aphthous ulcers, are small, painful lesions that develop on the soft tissues inside the mouth or at the base of the gums. They are typically round or oval with a white or yellow center and a red border, and can be triggered by factors such as minor mouth injuries, stress, hormonal changes, or certain foods. While they are usually harmless and heal on their own within one to two weeks, persistent or unusually severe sores may require medical attention.