Question 1

What was the main finding?

Accepted Answer

Even after canker sores visibly heal, the saliva still contains high levels of inflammatory proteins and stress markers, showing the mouth has not fully recovered at a molecular level.

Question 2

Were there any bacterial links discovered?

Accepted Answer

Yes, patients with recurrent canker sores had higher levels of certain bacteria, including Streptococcus pneumoniae, which was shown to trigger stress responses in oral cells.

Question 3

Why does this matter for patients?

Accepted Answer

It suggests that canker sores are part of a continuous inflammatory cycle rather than isolated events, pointing toward future treatments that might target the 'healed' phase to prevent future breakouts.

Why Do Canker Sores Keep Coming Back? Saliva Study Reveals Hidden Inflammation Even After Healing