What characterizes aphthous ulcers?

Aphthous ulcers, also known as canker sores, are characterized by their painful nature and their occurrence on soft tissues in the mouth. They manifest as small, shallow lesions that can make eating, talking, and even swallowing uncomfortable due to their sensitivity. The description of being "very painful and movable tissue" aligns well with these features, as the lesions can occur on movable mucosa, such as the inside of the lips, cheeks, or under the tongue, which increases discomfort when these areas are used for routine activities.

While it is true that the ulcers are often painless when they are first developing, the subsequent irritation and exposure to food and oral movements contribute to their known painful experience. Additionally, aphthous ulcers do not generally require surgical removal, as they tend to heal on their own within one to two weeks, thus ruling out the need for any surgical intervention.

Furthermore, these ulcers are not exclusive to children; they can affect individuals of any age. Thus, the choice that best captures the defining trait of aphthous ulcers is the one indicating their painful and movable characteristics.