Canker sores are small, painful sores that show up inside your mouth. Hence, you feel uncomfortable most of the time while eating, drinking, and even talking. Don’t worry, though. There are several ways to treat and prevent these pesky sores. In this guide, we’ll explain what canker sores are, why they happen, and how to get rid of them in simple terms.
What Are Canker Sores?
Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, are tiny ulcers that appear inside your mouth. They can be found on your gums, inside your lips or cheeks, and even on your tongue. Unlike cold sores, canker sores are not contagious and don’t appear on the outside of your mouth.
What Do Canker Sores Look Like?
Canker sores are round or oval in shape, with a white or yellow centre and a red border entirely on the sore. They can be small or large, and they might come alone or in groups.
Why Do Canker Sores Happen?
There are several reasons why you might get canker sores. Here are some common causes:
- Injury to the Mouth: Accidentally biting your cheek, brushing your teeth too hard, or eating something sharp can cause canker sores.
- Stress: Feeling stressed or anxious can sometimes lead to canker sores.
- Certain Foods: Acidic or spicy foods, like citrus fruits, tomatoes, and hot peppers, can trigger canker sores in some people.
- Nutritional Deficiencies: Not getting enough vitamins and minerals, especially iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12, can cause canker sores.
- Hormonal Changes: Some people get canker sores during certain times of their menstrual cycle.
- Medical Conditions: Conditions like celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, and immune system issues can cause canker sores.
How to Get Rid of Canker Sores
Getting rid of canker sores involves a mix of home remedies and over-the-counter treatments. Here are some simple and effective ways to heal canker sores faster:
A. Rinse with Salt Water:
- Take a cup of warm water and add one teaspoon of salt.
- Swish the solution in your mouth for about 30 seconds, then spit it out.
- Do this a few times a day to help reduce pain and speed up healing.
B. Use Baking Soda Rinse:
- Mix a teaspoon of baking soda in a cup of warm water.
- Swish it for about 30 seconds in your mouth before spitting it out.
- It can help neutralize acids in your mouth and reduce irritation.
C. Try Hydrogen Peroxide:
- Take hydrogen peroxide and water in equal amounts and mix well.
- A cotton swab is used to apply the mixture directly to the canker sore.
- Be careful not to swallow the solution.
D. Milk of Magnesia:
- Apply a small amount of magnesia milk directly to the canker sore.
- Repeat it thrice or four times a day.
- It can help coat the sore and relieve pain.
E. Avoid Trigger Foods:
- Stay away from acidic, spicy, or rough-textured foods that can irritate the sore.
- Eat soft, bland foods that are easy on your mouth.
F. Over-the-Counter Treatments:
- Look for topical treatments at the pharmacy. Products with benzocaine or hydrogen peroxide can numb the area and promote healing.
- Do as directed on the package for your safety.
G. Stay Hydrated:
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Staying hydrated helps keep your mouth moist and aids in healing.
H. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene:
- Brush your teeth with a gentle, soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Use a toothpaste that doesn’t contain sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS), as it can irritate your mouth.
I. Eat a Balanced Diet:
- Make sure you’re getting enough vitamins and minerals, especially iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12.
- Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
When to See a Dentist
Most canker sores take a week or two to heal naturally. However, you should see a dentist near you if:
- The sores are unusually large.
- You get them very often.
- They last longer than two weeks.
- You have a high fever along with the sores.
- The pain is so severe that it makes eating or drinking difficult.
Preventing Canker Sores
To reduce the chance of getting canker sores, you can take some simple steps:
A. Avoid Mouth Injuries:
- Be careful while eating to avoid biting your cheeks or tongue.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to prevent gum injuries.
B. Manage Stress:
- Relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can help reduce stress. You should practice them daily.
C. Watch Your Diet:
- Avoid foods that trigger canker sores for you.
- Eat a well-balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals.
D. Good Oral Hygiene:
- Brush and floss your teeth regularly to keep your mouth clean.
- Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups.
Closing Notes
Canker sores can be annoying and painful, but with the right care and treatment, you can get rid of them quickly. Remember to keep your mouth clean, avoid irritating foods, and use home remedies like salt water and baking soda rinses. If canker sores keep coming back or don’t heal, it’s important to see a dentist in NW Calgary to rule out any underlying health issues.
At Valley Ridge Dental Centre, we help all our patients get rid of canker sores as soon as possible and restore their oral health. Also, our dental experts consult with you for free and further guide you with the necessary treatment. Remember, by taking good care of your mouth and managing your stress, you can keep canker sores at bay and enjoy a healthy, pain-free mouth.