How to Soothe and Heal Canker Sores: Tips from a Doctor
Canker sores, those pesky little ulcers that can develop in your mouth, can be a real nuisance. They can make eating, drinking, and speaking painful and uncomfortable. If you're dealing with canker sores, don't worry, there are steps you can take to alleviate the pain and help them heal faster. In this article, we'll go over some tips from Dr. Alan Mandel, a doctor with years of experience treating canker sores.
Understanding Canker Sores and Possible Triggers
Canker sores are small ulcers that can develop in the gums or inside the mouth. They are not contagious, and they are not the same thing as cold sores. While the exact cause of canker sores is unknown, several triggers may lead to their development. These triggers include stress, brushing too hard, using toothpaste or mouth rinses containing sodium laurel, accidentally biting the cheek, and more.
13 Tips and Remedies for Soothing and Healing Canker Sores
- Rinse with Hydrogen Peroxide: Dr. Mandel recommends mixing one part hydrogen peroxide with two parts water and swishing it around in your mouth for about 20 seconds. This can help clean the affected area and prevent infection.
- Avoid Certain Foods: Hot, spicy, salty, and citrus-based foods can irritate canker sores and make them worse. Additionally, high-sugar foods can lead to inflammation.
- Suck on Ice: Ice, ice pops, sherbet, and other cold foods can help numb the pain and provide temporary relief.
- Avoid Touching the Sore: It's essential to avoid playing with the canker sore or putting your tongue on it, as this can irritate the area and make it worse.
- Take Vitamins: Dr. Mandel recommends taking vitamin B complex and vitamin C to boost your immune system, along with zinc lozenges to help speed up the healing process.
- Use Orajel: If the pain is severe, you may consider using over-the-counter pain relief products such as Orajel.
- Rinse with Salt Water: Dr. Mandel suggests mixing a teaspoon of salt in a glass of water and rinsing your mouth several times a day. This can help soothe the sore and reduce inflammation.
- Eat Soft Foods: Avoid hard or sharp foods that can irritate the sore, and stick to soft and easy-to-chew foods until the sore heals.
- Drink Chamomile Tea: Drinking chamomile tea can help soothe the sore and speed up the healing process.
- Get Probiotics: Eating probiotics and prebiotics can help keep your gut healthy, which, in turn, can boost your immune system.
- Use a Straw: Using a straw can help prevent liquid from getting directly onto the canker sore.
- Drink Your Greens: Chlorophyll, found in leafy green vegetables, can help heal canker sores.
- Get Your DGLs: Glycerinated licorice can help soothe the sore and promote healing.
Canker sores can be uncomfortable, but there are steps you can take to soothe the pain and promote healing. By following these tips from Dr. Mandel, you'll be on your way to feeling better in no time. Remember to take care of your gut, avoid irritating foods, and try natural remedies like chamomile tea and salt water rinses. With a little patience and persistence, you'll be able to alleviate the discomfort and heal those pesky canker sores.