Canker sores are small, painful sores that can develop on the inside of the mouth, on the tongue, or on the gums. (1) They can be caused by a variety of factors, including stress, a deficiency in certain nutrients, or irritation from certain foods or dental products.
Home remedies for canker sores
Here are a few home remedies that may
help alleviate the pain and promote the healing of canker sores,
1. Saltwater
rinse:
Rinse your mouth with a solution of 1
teaspoon of salt dissolved in a glass of warm water. This can help reduce
swelling and kill bacteria that may be contributing to the sore.
2. Baking
soda rinse:
Mix a small amount of baking soda with
water to create a paste, and then apply the paste to the sore using a cotton
swab. Before rinsing it off, let it sit on for a few minutes. This can help
neutralize the acidity of the sore and promote healing.
3. Milk
of magnesia:
Apply a small amount of milk of
magnesia to the sore using a cotton swab. This can help neutralize the acidity
of the sore and provide a protective barrier.
4. Hydrogen
peroxide:
Rinse your mouth with a solution of 1
part hydrogen peroxide to 1 part water. This may aid in destroying bacteria and
fostering healing.
5. Aloe
vera:
Apply aloe vera gel or juice directly
to the sore using a cotton swab. Aloe vera has soothing and healing properties
that may help reduce pain and improve healing.
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Foods that cause canker sores
Some common triggers for canker sores
include,
1. Acidic
foods:
Citrus fruits, tomatoes, and other
acidic foods can irritate the sensitive tissue in the mouth and trigger canker
sores.
2. Spicy
foods:
Spicy foods can irritate the mouth and
trigger canker
sores in some people.
3. Allergens:
Certain foods, such as nuts,
chocolate, and dairy products, can trigger allergic reactions that may cause
canker sores.
4. Hard
or crunchy foods:
Biting down on hard or crunchy foods,
such as chips or pretzels, can cause trauma to the mouth and trigger canker
sores.
5. Braces
or dentures:
Wearing braces or dentures can cause
irritation in the mouth, which can lead to canker sores.
It is important to note that not all
people will have the same triggers for canker sores, and some people may not
have any identifiable triggers at all. (2)
If you are prone to canker sores, it
may be helpful to keep a food diary to identify any potential triggers. Avoiding
these triggers can help reduce the frequency and severity of canker sores.
Final Note
Sometimes, these remedies may not work
for everyone and may not be suitable for all types of canker sores. If your
canker sores are severe or do not improve with home remedies, you should
consult a healthcare professional for further treatment.
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