Introduction
Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, are small, shallow lesions that develop on the soft tissues in your mouth, making it difficult to eat, drink, or even talk. These painful sores are quite common and tend to recur. If you experience canker sores, you know how uncomfortable it can be and how long it takes to heal. Fortunately, there are various remedies and practices you can use to get rid of canker sores or reduce their frequency and severity. In this article, we will explore different ways to treat and prevent canker sores for a speedy recovery and relief.
Home Remedies
When it comes to treating canker sores, home remedies can be a game-changer. Unlike over-the-counter medications, natural remedies are cheaper, readily available, and often have no side effects.
Saltwater rinse: Mix one teaspoon of salt with one cup of warm water. Swish the solution in your mouth for 30 seconds, four times a day. Saltwater rinse helps to reduce pain and inflammation and promotes healing.
Honey: Apply a small amount of honey directly to the canker sores. Do this three times a day until the sore heals. Honey is antibacterial and promotes wound healing.
Baking soda paste: Mix one tablespoon of baking soda with a few drops of water to make a paste. Apply the paste directly to the sore and leave it for 10-15 minutes before rinsing with warm water. Do this twice a day. Baking soda helps to neutralize acid in the mouth and promotes healing.
Coconut oil: Swish a tablespoon of coconut oil around in your mouth for about 10 minutes before spitting it out. Do this in the morning and evening. Coconut oil is anti-inflammatory and reduces swelling and pain.
Other home remedies that you can try include chamomile tea, sage, myrrh, and aloe vera gel. Use these remedies as directed, and if the symptoms persist, seek medical attention.
Over-the-Counter Treatments
Over-the-counter treatments can help relieve pain and promote healing. These treatments come in a variety of forms such as creams, gels, and mouth rinses.
Benzocaine: Benzocaine is a topical anesthetic that can help numb the pain. Apply a small amount of benzocaine gel to the sore as directed.
Hydrogen Peroxide: Mix equal parts of water and hydrogen peroxide, then apply the mixture to the sore. Do this once a day. Hydrogen peroxide helps to kill bacteria and reduce swelling.
Antimicrobial mouthwash: Rinse your mouth with an antimicrobial mouthwash such as Listerine to help kill bacteria. Rinse your mouth twice a day.
Orajel: Orajel is a topical pain reliever that can help ease the discomfort of canker sores. Apply it to the sore as directed.
When using over-the-counter medications, follow the instructions carefully, and never apply them more than prescribed.
Diet Changes
What you eat could be contributing to the outbreak of canker sores. Certain foods are notorious for triggering canker sores, such as acidic and spicy foods. Avoiding these foods could help reduce the frequency of occurrence.
Some foods to avoid include:
- citrus fruits
- tomatoes
- pineapple
- strawberries
- spicy foods
- chips and pretzels
You may also want to increase your intake of vitamin B12 and iron, as deficiencies in these nutrients have been linked to canker sores.
Stress Relief
Stress has been known to contribute to the outbreak of canker sores. Practicing stress-reduction activities such as yoga, meditation, or journaling could help reduce the likelihood of canker sores. These activities help to reduce stress and promote relaxation, which is essential to overall health.
Oral Hygiene
Good oral hygiene is the cornerstone of the prevention and treatment of canker sores. Brushing and flossing regularly help to keep your mouth healthy and reduce the risk of infections that could trigger canker sores. Furthermore, using a toothpaste or mouthwash with a low concentration of sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) could help prevent canker sores.
Medical Treatment
In some cases, canker sores may be severe or last for weeks. When home remedies or over-the-counter treatments are ineffective, it may be time to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional may prescribe an oral or topical medication to help alleviate the symptoms of canker sores. Prescription medications may include corticosteroids, mouth rinses, or antibiotics.
Prevention
The prevention of canker sores is a combination of lifestyle changes and healthy habits. Here are a few ways to prevent canker sores:
- Avoid irritating foods and beverages
- Manage your stress levels
- Maintain good oral hygiene
- Get enough sleep
- Eat a balanced diet
Conclusion
Canker sores can be a painful and uncomfortable experience, but fortunately, they are treatable and preventable. Home remedies, over-the-counter treatments, and healthy lifestyle habits can help reduce the frequency and severity of canker sores. The key is to experiment with different treatment methods and find what works best for you. Remember to maintain good oral hygiene, avoid irritating foods, manage stress levels, and practice healthy habits for overall health. With diligence and consistency, you can get rid of canker sores once and for all.
