Medical Definition of ODONTOLOGY. 1. : a science dealing with the teeth, their structure and development, and their diseases.2. : forensic odontology. â odonÂ·toÂ·logÂ·iÂ·cal \-Ëdaent-ËdÃ¤nt-Él-Ëaej-ËÃ¤j\ i. kÉl adjective. : a science dealing with the teeth, their structure and development, and their diseases. 2. : forensic odontology.
1 See a doctor if canker sores are accompanied by fever, last more than three weeks, or the affected individual has difficulty swallowing.  Multiple factors may cause canker sores, including injury to the mouth, acidic or spicy foods, vitamin deficiencies, hormones, stress, or autoimmune disorders.
Canker sores can be very painful! The exact cause of canker sores is not entirely certain, although several different factors including stress, certain spicy/acidic foods, or vitamin deficiencies can be associated with them. They are also associated with some autoimmune or gastrointestinal conditions such as Crohn's disease or celiac disease. Canker sores typically resolve within a week or so, although aggravating factors such as spicy foods or mechanical trauma can make them take longer to heal. The fact that your canker sores have persisted for over 3 weeks is an indication that you should return for evaluation with either your dentist or your oral surgeon.