How Do You Get Rid of a Canker Sore?

Dr.Bhumika Madan, 3 mins read

A canker sore, also called an aphthous ulcer, is a small but painful sore that appears inside the mouth. It can show up on the tongue, gums, inner cheeks, or lips. Unlike cold sores, which appear outside the mouth and are caused by the herpes virus, canker sores are not contagious. Still, they can make eating, drinking, or even talking uncomfortable.

The good news is that most canker sores go away on their own within one to two weeks. However, there are many ways you can reduce the pain and speed up healing. Through this blog, let us explore the causes, home remedies, and treatments for canker sores.

What Causes Canker Sores?

The exact cause of canker sore is not always clear, but several factors may trigger them, such as:

1. Minor injury in the mouth like biting your cheek, sharp braces, or rough toothbrush use.
   
2. Stress or lack of sleep weakens our body’s healing ability.
   
3. Nutritional deficiencies such as low levels of iron, folic acid, zinc, or vitamin B12.
   
4. Hormonal changes in women during their menstrual cycle may give rise to canker sores.
   
5. It can also occur in medical conditions such as celiac disease or inflammatory bowel disease.
   

Home Remedies for Canker Sores:

Following are some of the easy ways which give relief from caker sore at home:

1. Salt Water Rinse: Mix one teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water. Rinse with it for 15 to 30 seconds, then spit it out. Salt helps reduce bacteria and keeps the sore clean.
   
2. Baking Soda Rinse: Dissolve one teaspoon of baking soda in half cup of water. This balances the acidity in your mouth and soothes irritation.
   
3. Honey: Honey has natural antibacterial and healing properties. Apply a small amount directly to the sore several times a day.
   
4. Cold Compress: Placing something cold against the sore can numb the pain and reduce swelling.
   
5. Avoid Irritating Foods: Stay away from spicy, acidic, or rough-textured foods like chips or nuts that may make the sore worse. 
   
6. Coconut Oil: Coconut oil fights bacteria and reduces inflammation. 
   
7. Over-the-Counter Treatments: If home remedies are not enough, we can try medicines such as oral gels or ointments and take antiseptic mouthwashes and pain relievers as per the doctor’s prescription.

How to Prevent Canker Sores?

1. Brush gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
   
2. Manage stress through relaxation, meditation, or exercise.
   
3. Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals.
   
4. Drink plenty of water to keep your mouth healthy.
   
5. Identify and avoid food triggers if certain foods cause sores for you.
   

When to See a Doctor

Most canker sores heal within two weeks, but you should see a doctor or dentist if the sore is unusually large or spreading and lasts longer than three weeks. If you get frequent sores that keep coming back causing severe pain with fever, diarrhea, or swollen lymph nodes, you should definitely check it with a doctor.

In rare cases, frequent canker sores may be linked to an underlying medical condition that needs treatment.

Takeaway!

Canker sores may be small, but they can cause a lot of discomfort. Simple remedies like salt water rinses, honey, or avoiding spicy foods can bring quick relief. Most heal on their own, but if your sores are large, very painful, or keep returning, it is best to see a healthcare professional. Taking care of your mouth and overall health can greatly reduce your chances of getting them again.