What is Recurrent Aphthous Stomatitis (SAR)?
Recurrent Aphthous Stomatitis (SAR) or commonly known as canker sores, is an oral disease that is most often found in the community. SAR is characterized by painful oval or round ulcers on the oral mucosa, occurring recurrently. The etiology of SAR is not yet known with certainty, but there are several predisposing factors that can cause SAR, namely genetics, trauma (injury), allergies, hormonal and nutritional deficiencies.
- Genetic
Genetic factors play a role in patients suffering from SAR. The inheritance of certain genes, especially pro-inflammatory cytokines which play a role in the formation of SAR ulcers, can increase the tendency for SAR to occur in a number of family members.
- Trauma (Injury)
Brushing your teeth too vigorously and trauma (injury) from toothbrush bristles, bites to the cheek and lip mucosa, or dental procedures (medical procedures related to the teeth and mouth) can cause SAR.
- Allergy
Allergies are thought to be one of the factors causing SAR. SAR can occur due to the sensitivity of oral tissue to certain substances, such as drugs. After contact with this material, irritation occurs to the mucosa so that the mucosa becomes inflamed.
- Hormonal
When stress occurs, levels of the hormone cortisol in the blood will increase. This causes the number of leukocytes to increase, and inflammation will easily occur and continue to cause SAR.
- Nutritional Deficiency
Nutritional factors that influence the emergence of SAR are imbalances in levels of folic acid, iron, vitamins B1, B2, B6, B12 and zinc.
Management
SAR treatment is carried out pharmacologically and non-pharmacologically.
- Pharmacological (through drugs)
Histopathologically, SAR cells were found that play a role in the inflammatory process. So it is necessary to be given medication which is a moderate level steroid anti-inflammatory. By administering anti-inflammatories it is hoped that it can eliminate the inflammatory process thereby reducing pain.
- Non-pharmacological (without using drugs)
Non-pharmacological treatment can be carried out by anticipating the causes that can trigger SAR, for example:
- If SAR occurs due to a buildup of tartar, treatment can be carried out such as tooth scaling treatment
- If SAR occurs due to trauma caused by toothbrushing, non-pharmacolgical treatment can be carried out by improving toothbrushing technique and choosing the right toothbrush (choose a soft brush as needed).
Also read: Know the importance of maintaining oral and dental hygiene
Article written by drg. Hermita Agus, Sp.PM (Dentist Specializing in Oral Diseases at EMC Sentul Hospital).