How To Deal With Canker Sores

A type of ulcer, Canker sores in the mouth in white or grey color can be painful at times. They mostly occur on the softer parts of the mouth like the lips, cheeks, and tongue. Scientifically termed as recurrent aphthous stomatitis or RAS, it has the tendency to reappear once subsided many times.
Canker sores generally do not require any treatment and can heal within a week or two. The severe form of Canker known as RAS can cause larger ulcers with scarring and can last up to a couple of weeks.

Here are a few tips on dealing with Canker sores at home –

Mouth Rinse – Using a mouth wash with antiseptic properties can help to numb the mouth and prevent infection.

Brushing – Using a soft toothbrush can help to deal with canker sores. Brushing teeth on a daily basis and maintaining good oral hygiene

Vitamin B 12 – A study has found that Vitamin B12 supplements can help reduce canker sore pain as well as reduced the occurrence as well as reoccurrence.

Chamomile tea – Chamomile tea together with honey can help reduce the inflammation and pain caused by canker sores, though it is not clinically proven. You can simply soak the chamomile tea bag in warm water and then apply it to the ulcer directly.

Aloe vera – Aloe vera gel helps in reducing inflammation and pain caused due to the condition though it’s not clinically proven but in general it’s deemed as safe by NCCIH.

Cloves – Placing a cotton wool ball soaked in clove oil after cleaning your mouth with a mouth was or sea salt can help in relieving you from the pain and inflammation caused by the condition

Numbing Mouth – Numbing your mouth ulcer with the help of ice cubes can help in relieving the pain and discomfort caused.

Avoiding Certain Foods – When suffering from the conditions intake of spicy, acidic, or salty foods can aggravate the pain and stop healing so it is advisable to avoid these foods as far as possible.

OTC Relief products – A lot of gels and patches are already available over the counter to help deal with canker sores effectively.

Apparently, following good dental hygiene is a great way to avoid canker sores primarily, but if it still occurs you may try out the following home-based remedies to get relief and faster healing.