Are canker sores killing you? Let me give you some simple home remedies to relieve the pain.
Canker sores are also known as aphthous ulcers. Nobody knows their exact cause. Some of them happen because you bite your lip or your cheek by accident. Others may be caused by stress. And many more form without any clear cause.
They all have something in common, though–they hurt a lot. In this post you’ll find the most effective home remedies to ease and help cure them.
1. Avoid spicy food
Spicy food will irritate your sore and make it more painful. Your sores will heal faster if you don’t irritate them any more.
2. Rinse your mouth with water and salt
Add half a teaspoon of salt to 1 cup of warm water. Gargle with this solution for about 30 seconds, then spit it out. Repeat a few times a day to help reduce inflammation and promote healing.
3. Rinse your mouth with baking soda
Dissolve 1 teaspoon of baking soda into 1/2 cup of warm water. Gargle with this solution for about 30 seconds, then spit it out. Baking soda can help neutralize acids and soothe the sore.
Some people prefer using a baking soda paste. Mix a small amount of baking soda with some water to create a paste. After that, apply the paste directly to your canker sore. Leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing your mouth with warm water.
4. Milk of magnesia
Apply a small amount of milk of magnesia onto the canker sore a few times a day. It can help neutralize acids and provide a protective coating for the sore.
5. Over-the-counter (OTC) gels
There are several products that can help relieve pain and promote healing. Look for products containing benzocaine or numbing agents designed for canker sores.
You have to apply them on your sores, and they’ll provide instant, effective relief.
6. Honey
Apply a small amount of honey directly to the canker sore. Honey has antibacterial and wound-healing properties. These can help soothe the sore and speed up the healing process.
7. Avoid toothpaste with SLS (sodium lauryl sulfate)
SLS is a common ingredient that creates foam when you brush. It can also irritate sensitive teeth and gums.
Thus, sores tend to heal faster when you use SLS-free toothpaste.
And what about the other esoteric products many people recommend?
I personally don’t believe in them. However, if you know of a different remedy that works for you, feel free to share it in the comments. Maybe you’ll change my mind!
Sources:
- The healing properties of honey: “Wounds” journal
- SLS-free toothpaste: Sensodyne
- Milk of magnesia: Webmd
- Canker sores: Mayo Clinic
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