Apthous ulcers, commonly known as "canker sores", affect about 1 in 6 people; it is commonly misdiagnosed as herpes ("cold sore"). Typical aphthous sores are less than 1cm in diameter and heal in about a week...but they certainly can hurt while they are with you.

While the common experience is just a few ulcers per year, some patients can get them much more frequently. When you get aphtous ulcers frequently, or have several at a time, it is important to be evaluated by an expert in oral dermatology / oral medicine to be sure there is no underlying medical condition that may be the cause.

Whether you get them only a few times / year or more frequently, there are effective strategies to treat them...speeding up healing time and reducing pain.

Dr. Sirois is a Diplomat of the American Board of Oral Medicine and a recognized authority in the diagnosis and treatment of oral mucosal diseases, including aphthous ulcers. If you suffer from aphthous ulcers, arrange a consultation to get the best information on managing your condition.

For more information on this and other oral medicine problems, visit the American Academy of Oral Medicine web site at http://www.aaom.com, and click on "patient information".