Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) has some scientific support for its use in the management of canker sores (aphthous ulcers), though the evidence is limited and not definitive. Several small clinical studies and case reports have observed that vitamin C deficiency may be associated with the development of oral ulcers, including canker sores. Supplementation in individuals with low vitamin C status has sometimes resulted in resolution or reduction in recurrence of these sores. For example, a study published in the Journal of Oral Pathology & Medicine (1994) reported improvement in patients with recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS) after vitamin C supplementation, especially in those with marginal or low serum ascorbate levels. However, these studies are often uncontrolled, with small sample sizes, and not all research has demonstrated benefit in individuals with normal vitamin C status.

The rationale for vitamin C's use is based on its known roles in collagen synthesis, tissue repair, and immune modulation, all of which could theoretically support oral mucosal healing. That said, systematic reviews and clinical guidelines do not currently recommend routine vitamin C supplementation for canker sores in otherwise healthy individuals. Thus, while there is a scientific rationale and some preliminary clinical data, the overall quality of evidence is weak, and vitamin C should not be considered a primary treatment except in cases of deficiency.

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