Tips to Get Rid of Canker Sores

Canker sores can be a painful and annoying issue to deal with. These small, shallow ulcers that can appear on the inside of your mouth or lips can make it difficult to eat, drink, or even talk. While they are not contagious or dangerous, they can be uncomfortable to deal with. Fortunately, there are several effective remedies that you can use to get rid of canker sores quickly.

If you’re looking for ways to make a canker sore go away, then you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll be discussing some easy and natural remedies that you can use to treat canker sores at home. We’ll also talk about some tips for preventing canker sores from coming back in the future. With these tips, you can get relief from canker sores quickly and easily, letting you get back to your normal day-to-day life.

10 Ways to Make a Canker Sore Go Away

If you suffer from frequent canker sores, you’re not alone. These painful little ulcers can make it difficult to eat, drink, and talk comfortably. Fortunately, there are many remedies you can try to speed up the healing process. Here are 10 ways to make a canker sore go away.

1. Apply a saltwater rinse

Saltwater is a natural disinfectant that can help relieve pain and inflammation. Mix one teaspoon of salt with one cup of warm water and swish it around your mouth for 30 seconds before spitting it out. Repeat this process three times a day for best results.

2. Use a baking soda paste

Baking soda is known for its ability to neutralize acidic environments, which can help reduce inflammation and promote healing. Mix one teaspoon of baking soda with a little water to make a paste, then apply it directly to the canker sore. Leave it on for 10 to 15 minutes before rinsing your mouth with warm water.

3. Try a honey or coconut oil treatment

Both honey and coconut oil contain antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help heal canker sores. Apply a small amount of honey or coconut oil directly to the sore and leave it on for as long as possible before rinsing your mouth with warm water.

4. Use a tea bag

Black tea contains tannins that can help reduce pain and inflammation. Place a wet tea bag on the canker sore and hold it there for five to 10 minutes. Repeat this process two to three times a day for best results.

5. Apply a milk of magnesia rinse

Milk of magnesia is an antacid that can help neutralize acids in the mouth, reducing pain and inflammation. Swish a small amount around your mouth for 30 seconds before spitting it out. Repeat this process two to three times a day.

6. Try a topical pain reliever

Over-the-counter topical pain relievers, such as Orajel or Anbesol, can help numb the pain associated with canker sores. Apply a small amount directly to the sore as needed.

7. Take over-the-counter pain medication

If your canker sore is causing severe pain, over-the-counter pain medication such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help provide relief.

8. Avoid spicy or acidic foods

Eating spicy or acidic foods can irritate canker sores and make them worse. Stick to soft, bland foods until the sore has healed.

9. Keep your mouth clean

Maintaining good oral hygiene can help prevent canker sores from recurring. Brush your teeth twice a day, floss daily, and use an antiseptic mouthwash to kill bacteria and reduce inflammation.

10. Give it time

Most canker sores go away on their own within one to two weeks. While it may be tempting to try and speed up the healing process, sometimes all you can do is wait it out. Be patient and try to minimize your discomfort in the meantime.

What Causes Canker Sores?

1. Genetics:

Canker sores can be hereditary. Scientists have discovered that genetic factors play a significant role in their onset and duration. Individuals with a family history of canker sores are more prone to get them.

2. Trauma or injury:

Canker sores typically arise as a result of trauma, such as biting your tongue or cheek, or rubbing on a rough surface. Dentists can frequently recognize the exact location of a canker sore depending on where the irritation occurred.

3. Food Sensitivities:

Eating certain foods can trigger canker sores. Citrus fruits, chocolate, and coffee are frequent culprits that should be avoided if you have a predisposition to canker sores.

4. Immune system:

People who have a weakened immune system are more likely to develop canker sores. Certain ailments, such as celiac disease and lupus, can also create this condition.

5. Hormonal changes:

Canker sores may occur in women during their menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or menopause due to fluctuations in hormone levels.

6. Stress:

Stress is known to be a significant contributor to the onset of canker sores. Higher stress levels can cause an increase in inflammation in the mouth, resulting in canker sores forming.

7. Medical conditions:

Other medical conditions, such as HIV/AIDS, gastrointestinal infections, and inflammatory bowel disease, can also raise the risk of getting canker sores.

8. Smoking:

Smoking has been shown to increase the likelihood of getting canker sores, as well as contribute to the severity of existing ones.

9. Poor oral hygiene:

Not brushing and flossing your teeth can cause oral health problems, including canker sores.

10. Medications:

Certain medications, such as beta-blockers and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can contribute to the development of canker sores. If you have a health issue that needs treatment, speak with your doctor about the possible side effects of medications that you may be taking.

Causes of Canker Sores

Canker sores can be painful and annoying, but understanding what causes them can help you prevent future outbreaks. Here are a few factors that can contribute to the development of canker sores:

1. Injury or Mouth Trauma

Sudden injury or trauma to the mouth can cause canker sores to develop. This can happen if you accidentally bite your tongue, cheek, or lip. Wearing braces or ill-fitting dentures can also lead to mouth trauma and cause canker sores to form.

2. Certain Foods and Nutrition Deficiencies

Some people may develop canker sores due to a lack of certain nutrients in their diet. For instance, a deficiency in vitamin B12, iron, or folic acid may cause canker sores to form. Also, eating foods that are high in acidity, such as oranges, lemons, or other citrus fruits, can irritate the mouth’s lining and lead to canker sores.

3. Hormonal Changes

Hormonal changes in the body, such as those that occur during menstruation or pregnancy, can cause canker sores to appear. The fluctuations in hormone levels can weaken the immune system, making it easier for bacteria and viruses to cause an infection.

4. Stress and Anxiety

Stress and anxiety can affect the body in numerous ways, including the development of canker sores. Higher stress levels create an imbalance in the immune system, making it less effective in fighting off infections and facilitating healing.

5. Allergies and Sensitivities

Certain foods, medications, or other substances can trigger an allergic reaction that may lead to canker sores. Some people are also sensitive to sodium lauryl sulfate, an ingredient found in many toothpaste products that can cause oral irritation.

Understanding the causes of canker sores is essential in preventing them from recurring. However, if you are currently experiencing a canker sore outbreak, there are various treatments and remedies that can help alleviate the symptoms and promote healing.

Remember, canker sores usually heal on their own within a week or two. However, if you experience severe pain or have recurring outbreaks, it’s best to consult with a medical professional.

Say Goodbye to Canker Sores for Good!

Now that you know how to make a canker sore go away, you can finally say goodbye to those pesky mouth ulcers! Remember to take good care of your mouth, stay hydrated, and avoid triggers that can cause these sores to form. If you do happen to get a canker sore, don’t panic! Just follow the tips in this article and you’ll be feeling better in no time. Thanks for reading and visit us again soon for more helpful tips and advice!