Mouth ulcers also known as canker sores are painful and irritating that occur in the mouth and gums. Most mouth sores are harmless but can cause uneasiness and discomfort making it hard even to eat, drink or brush the teeth. Also Read: Canker Sores: Causes, Symptoms, And Treatment

Mouth ulcers appear as sores on the soft tissues of the mouth including lips, cheeks, tongue, floor and roof of the mouth. However, it is not a severe condition, but still, a person suffering from it may experience intense pain and show disinterest towards food.

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There are no specific causes for mouth ulcers, but some of the factors that may trigger include:

  • Accidental biting of the cheek or tongue, minor injury or hard brushing
  • Mouth rinses and toothpaste which contains certain chemicals
  • Acidic food or other food triggers like coffee and chocolate
  • Nutritional deficiency especially B12, folate, zinc and iron
  • Dental braces
  • Stress and hormonal changes or any infection
  • Certain medications like beta-blockers and pain killers
Natural Remedies For Mouth Ulcers

Eating a well-balanced diet, avoiding food triggers, proper dental hygiene and taking a multivitamin may help to get rid of mouth ulcers. There are a few simple and effective home remedies that work well in providing quick relief from mouth ulcers.

1. Honey

The goodness of potent anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of honey work amazingly well to heal mouth ulcers. Honey, when applied on the affected region, moisturizes the skin and prevents it from becoming dry and reduces the itching and irritation. Apply a few drops of honey and allow it to stay for a few hours and rinse off, honey lowers scarring and fasten the healing process. Also Read: Healing Benefits Of Honey For Skin Health And Beauty

2. Coconut Oil

Thanks to the impressive anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties, coconut oil aids in lessening the inflammation and reducing the swelling caused due to canker sores. The analgesic property helps to ease the pain. Soak a piece of cotton with virgin coconut oil and apply it on the affected region before going to bed and allow it to stay overnight.

3. Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)

Apple cider vinegar is a time-tested natural remedy that helps in healing mouth sores. The acidic nature of ACV combats the germs causing canker sores. Take 3 teaspoons of ACV mix with half a cup of water and gargle the solution in the mouth for 30 seconds and rinse well. Repeat this twice daily for a week to get instant relief from mouth ulcers.

4. Saltwater

Saltwater tops the list and used since times immemorial for curing mouth ulcers. Saltwater gargling helps in drying out canker sores. Dissolve 1 teaspoon of saltwater with half a cup of warm water and swirl the mixture in the mouth for a few seconds and repeat this several times in a day for quickly healing ulcers.

5. Garlic

Garlic is a proven natural remedy that is valuable in curing canker cores. The powerful compound allicin in garlic is effective in alleviating the pain and reducing the size of the mouth ulcer. Gently rub a small piece of garlic on the affected region for 3-5 minutes and flush the mouth after 20 minutes.

Dietary Management For Mouth Ulcers

Eating a normal diet might be painful with mouth ulcers, as spicy food is not well tolerated. Certain types of food will irritate tender mouth, which makes chewing and swallowing difficult. By choosing the right kind of foods and taking good care of your mouth, teeth and gums, you can make eating easier and heal ulcer rapidly.

Milk-based food preparations are easy to take, as they do not irritate the mouth lining. Incorporate in your diet bland food such as moong dal, idli, upma, kichadi, bread, paneer, soft vegetables and fruits and boiled eggs that are soothing to eat. Ensure that the temperature of the food is not be very hot or cold, as both may irritate and worsen the pain. Use a straw to drink liquids, which can assist bypass canker sores and have small bites and chew each bite carefully and thoroughly, when eating.

Try to include some of these foods that are easy to chew and swallow which include:

  • Dairy and dairy products like curd, yoghurt and cheese
  • Bananas, applesauce, and papaya. Also have water-rich fruits like peaches, peach, watermelon, cantaloupe and nectarines, but avoid fruit that contains tiny seeds such as berries
  • Mashed potatoes, sweet potato and other boiled and pureed vegetables
  • Custard, puddings , smoothies and shakes
  • Boiled and scrambled eggs
  • Oatmeal, porridges and other cereals with extra milk or water.
  • Semi-liquid items such as soy milk, rice milk, juice, broth, soup, jelly or yoghurt
  • Boiled lean meat

Additional Remedies

Ice Cube

Applying a small ice cube on canker sores soothes them quickly. Wrap an ice cube in a clean towel and place it carefully on the sore. Not only will the cold numb the sensation, but it will also calm the inflammation. This is very helpful when there are painful canker sores around the lips.

Aloe Vera Gel

Known to be an effective cooling agent, aloe vera gel is laden with anti-inflammatory properties and can tackle mouth ulcers caused due to body heat. Apply gel from the plant directly to canker sores and leave it on them for some time.

Toothpaste

Toothpaste consists of potent antimicrobial properties that can fight infection-causing bacteria. Apply little toothpaste to the affected area of the ulcer. It may itch a bit but will speed up the healing process.

Tulsi Leaves

Rich in antibacterial properties, tulsi works to heal mouth sores effectively. Chew some fresh tulsi leaves and rinse your mouth with tulsi-infused water twice a day for pain relief from mouth ulcers.

Liquorice Powder

Liquorice powder is a wonderful ingredient that helps to cleanse the stomach and flushes out toxins that can be one of the causes of canker sores.

Disclaimer:

The content provided here is for informational purposes only. This blog is not intended to substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider for any questions or concerns you may have regarding a medical condition. Reliance does not endorse or recommend any specific tests, physicians, procedures, opinions, or other information mentioned on the blog.