We are not sure what causes them exactly, but we do know that canker sores can be distracting and painful. They are the small, shallow ulcers that show up in our mouths often making it difficult to eat or even talk.
Canker sores are known to appear after eating acidic foods such as lemons, oranges, pineapples, apples, tomatoes and strawberries. It is also believed that stress or injury to the tissue can cause canker sores. While most people will experience canker sores only a few times a year at the most, others have them much more frequently.
Canker Sore Remedies
Although most canker sores will typically last a week at the most, they can be very uncomfortable and painful. Many people simply do not have the patience or tolerance to deal with canker sores and begin to look for remedies immediately. Here are a few ideas on how to treat canker sores at home:
- The Numbing Approach
There are products on the market such as Orajel that work as a topical anesthetic to help block the pain from a canker sore. You can also make a homemade numbing solution using peppermint and eucalyptus oils that are both known to have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Antacids
The pain we feel from canker sores is actually acids and digestive enzymes eating into the tissue of the sore. Try neutralizing or slowing this process by using an antacid like Tums or Rolaids. You might also try rinsing your mouth with a small amount of milk of magnesia.
- Protect and Seal
Placing a protective seal over the sore can also help to slow down or alleviate the pain of a canker sore. Products such as Zilactin-B or Colgate Orabase form a cover or coating over the sore that helps relieve pain and promotes healing. You might also try the sap of aloe vera as a natural remedy.
- Keep the Sore Clean
By disinfecting the canker sore, you can help to reduce pain and prevent further infection. Try this concoction for cleaning your mouth: 2 ounces of hydrogen peroxide, 2 ounces of water, one teaspoon of baking soda and one teaspoon of salt. Stir them together until they dissolve and then swish the mixture around in your mouth before spitting it out. Not only will the hydrogen peroxide disinfect your mouth, but also the baking soda will help to neutralize any acids that may be present.
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These are just a few remedies on how to help alleviate the pain and discomfort of a canker sore. If a canker sore persists for more than 2 weeks, we recommend that you schedule an appointment with Smile Concepts to have it looked at more closely. Call 480-951-2800 to set up a consultation.
