noun
- Small, painful ulcers or sores that form inside the mouth, typically on the gums, tongue, or inner cheeks.
Usage: Medical/clinical term; Plural form; singular is 'aphtha'; Also called canker sores or mouth ulcers in common usage
Examples
- The patient complained of painful aphthae that made eating difficult.
- Aphthae often appear after minor injuries to the mouth from dental work or accidental cheek biting.
- Most aphthae heal on their own within one to two weeks.
- The dentist examined the aphthae and recommended a topical antiseptic rinse.
- Recurrent aphthae can sometimes indicate a nutritional deficiency or underlying health condition.