Natural Remedies for Canker Sores and Mouth Ulcers

Natural Remedies for Canker Sores and Mouth Ulcers

Canker sores and mouth ulcers can be quite painful and bothersome. But there are numerous natural remedies and preventive measures that can help alleviate the discomfort and speed up the healing process. Let's explore them in detail.

What Causes Canker Sores?

Canker sores can have various causes. They might be triggered by factors such as emotional stress, dietary deficiencies, menstrual periods, hormonal changes, food allergies, or trauma in the mouth. Sometimes, the exact cause remains unknown. Certain medical conditions like Celiac disease, Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), Immunodeficiency disorders, and Helicobacter pylori can also contribute to their formation.

Symptoms of Canker Sores

The main symptom of a canker sore is pain. Initially, you might experience a tingling sensation before the appearance of round or oval sores with a raised border and a yellow, gray, or white center. Contact with the sore can cause intense pain, making it difficult to talk, eat, or drink.

Home Remedies and Prevention Tips

Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial. Brushing twice a day and flossing daily can prevent problems like tooth decay and gum disease, reducing the risk of canker sores. Avoid sharp or irritating foods to prevent further irritation. Incorporate essential vitamins and minerals into your diet. Vitamin B-12 and zinc, for instance, can aid in both prevention and healing. Zinc lozenges are an easy way to boost your immune system. A saltwater rinse can be beneficial. It helps create an environment that is less conducive to bacterial growth, promoting healing. Alleviating pain with honey is another option. Honey has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and applying it directly to the sore several times a day can provide relief and speed up the healing process. Reducing stress in your life is important as it can have an impact on the occurrence of canker sores. If you have braces or other appliances causing irritation, take steps to deal with it. You can consult your dentist for more options.

OTC Treatments

There are several over-the-counter (OTC) treatments available for canker sores. Antiseptic rinses containing chlorhexidine can help heal mouth sores by reducing bacteria in the mouth. Oral anesthetics like benzocaine can relieve pain. Anti-inflammatory medications can also ease pain and reduce inflammation. Milk of magnesia can neutralize acid and coat the ulcer, reducing pain. Liquid Benadryl, an allergy medication, can help reduce inflammation and promote healing, especially for mouth ulcers caused by food allergies or sensitivities. You can combine it with milk of magnesia for an oral rinse. Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice Mouthwash, available at organic and holistic specialty stores, may offer some relief, although definitive studies are lacking.

Natural Remedies for Speeding Up Healing

Some natural remedies can accelerate the healing of canker sores. For example, a salt water and baking soda mixture can help by reducing acid levels in the mouth and promoting a healthy environment for healing. Hydrogen peroxide, when used appropriately as an antiseptic, can keep the sore free of bacteria. Honey has healing properties and can reduce pain and ulcer size. Chamomile tea, either applied directly or consumed, can be helpful. Coconut oil, through its lauric acid content, can promote gum health and aid in getting rid of canker sores. An apple cider vinegar rinse or a sage mouthwash can also soothe the sore. Ice can numb the pain.

Prescription Treatments

In some cases, prescription medication is necessary for persistent or infected canker sores. Your dentist might prescribe tetracycline suspension, but be cautious as it can cause permanent discoloration in developing teeth. Corticosteroids like prednisone and dexamethasone can be prescribed for severe cases. Gel treatments with fluocinonide or cauterization of recurrent canker sores might also be recommended.

When to See a Dentist

If your canker sore doesn't improve with home remedies or OTC treatments, or if you have severe pain, a large or persistent sore, or frequent occurrences, it's essential to consult a dentist. They can determine the underlying cause and prescribe the most appropriate treatment.