Treatment For Mouth Ulcers And Canker Sores

Ulcers and canker sores can have several causes. In this article we will show you how to treat them, as well as how you can reduce the risk of their occurrence in the future.

Ulcers and canker sores are small wounds that manifest in the oral cavity. Although they tend to be small in size, their location makes them uncomfortable and painful. Hot, cold, crunchy and acidic foods can irritate them, causing additional discomfort. Therefore, it is important to have a treatment for mouth ulcers and canker sores at hand.

Ulcers and canker sores require a long time to heal due to moisture in the mouth and food consumption. In this article, we will share some solutions to help you heal them quickly.

Causes of ulcers and canker sores

Although they are very common, the truth is that no one knows exactly why they appear. What we do know is that ulcers and canker sores affect about 20% of the population. They cause difficulties when we talk or try to eat.

Ulcers and canker sores are of two types: simple or complex. The first occur several times a year and last about a week in people aged 10 to 20 years. The latter are less common, and those affected by them have already suffered from herpes.

Some factors that trigger the appearance of ulcers and canker sores are:

Acidic or citrus fruits
Injury of the oral cavity with food or various utensils and tools
Nutrition problems or gastrointestinal disorders
Dental braces or prostheses

We must pay attention to the difference between cold sores and canker sores, which can be differentiated according to their appearance. Cold sores are caused by a simple virus and are contagious, while canker sores and ulcers are not. In addition, cold sores can occur on other parts of the face, such as the lips, nose and under the chin.

If you have canker sores, you will feel burns and you will have a painful sensation accompanied by tingling, as well as round white or gray lesions with red edges. You may also have a fever and swollen lymph nodes.

The good thing about canker sores and mouth ulcers is that they almost always go away on their own in about 7-10 days. The pain can be very annoying, but it is important not to touch the lesion with your teeth and tongue, even if you may be tempted.

Treatment for ulcers and canker sores

Salt

Salt is one of the cheapest and most effective antiseptic products in the world. It is a reliable ally to treat any wound naturally and in a short time.

All you have to do is mix a teaspoon of salt with a glass of lukewarm water and rinse your mouth with this mixture.
Spit out the solution and repeat the process at least three times a day.
The pain and discomfort will gradually disappear.

Sodium bicarbonate

Baking soda is perhaps the best treatment for ulcers and canker sores.

Mix a teaspoon of baking soda with half a glass of water.
Then rinse your mouth with this mixture without swallowing the liquid.
You can also prepare a paste with baking soda with a little water, which you can apply directly on canker sores or mouth ulcers.
Leave the paste to act for a few minutes so that it can take effect.
Then rinse your mouth with cold tap water.

Hydrogen peroxide

This is a treatment with proven effectiveness for ulcers and canker sores.

Take a cotton pad or a little sterile cotton wool and soak it in hydrogen peroxide (hydrogen peroxide).
Apply hydrogen peroxide directly on canker sores or ulceration three times a day.
This will help reduce discomfort and reduce the risk of developing an infection.

Mouthwash

The secret to treat canker sores and mouth ulcers is to apply antiseptic products on the affected area to avoid infection. Mouthwash is a remedy that can relieve discomfort and control the growth of bacteria. Do not overdo this product, especially if it is one with a high concentration, as mouthwash can cause an intense burning sensation.

Ice

An ice cube can gradually heal canker sores and mouth ulcers. It will reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

Place an ice cube on the affected area whenever you deem it necessary.

Yogurt

Thanks to the acid content of milk and beneficial bacteria in its composition, yogurt can help change the pH of the oral cavity and control the growth of harmful microorganisms.

Consume yogurt every day, especially if you suffer from ulcers and canker sores.
You can also apply it directly to the lesions with a cotton pad.

Tips to prevent the formation of ulcers and canker sores

Sometimes a poor diet can lead to oral diseases, as well as deficiencies of vitamins or minerals. Therefore, it is best to adopt a balanced diet. Other conditions that can cause ulcers or canker sores are iron or folic acid deficiency anemia, celiac disease and Crohn’s disease, among others.

Feel free to add iron-containing foods to your diet, such as green leafy vegetables, whole grains and milk. Also, be careful when brushing your teeth, as they can cause injury or irritation to the oral cavity. The same thing happens when you eat crunchy foods, such as chips, toast, seeds, etc.

Lastly, avoid acidic or spicy foods and chewing gum and don’t forget to floss after every meal to always keep your mouth clean and healthy.