What is a canker sore
Canker sore, also called aphthous ulcer is an ulcer that appears inside the mouth as an open sore. It can be very painful.
Although the exact causes of canker sores are not completely known it is thought that factors like citrus fruits, weakened immune system, food allergies are lack of sleep and some vitamin and mineral deficiencies may be the causers of these ulcers.
There are several different home remedies and treatments that may relieve the pain and discomfort and accelerate the healing of canker sores.
Canker sore remedies and treatments
One of the best treatments for canker sores are saline solutions and sodium bicarbonate. A saline solution can be easily made at home with one teaspoon of salt, preferably sea salt, and a cup of warm water. Another option is to add half a teaspoon of baking soda to the solution. This solutions should be swished around the mouth for 30 seconds and then spat out.
Baking soda can be mixed with water in little quantities until a paste is made. This paste should be applied over the sore and left there.
A solution made of equal parts of hydrogen peroxide and water will disinfect the mouth and relieve the symptoms of canker sores. This solution must not be swallowed and it is important to use water and not just the peroxide as it can irritate the mucous membrane in the mouth.
Magnesia milk can be very effective against canker sores. It should be dabbed over the sore with a cotton swab several times a day preferably after applying hydrogen peroxide.
Liquid antihistamines, like Benadryl, can be combined with milk of magnesia for an optimal effect.
There are many different oral care products and mouthwashes that can be bought over the counter and that can be helpful with canker sores. Antiseptic oral care products aim to reduce the number of bacteria in the mouth and some of them contain ingredients that numb the area, which helps with painful sores.
It is always important to follow the instructions listed on the package of these products in order to avoid possible complications and irritation.
Some canker sores are classified as major and considered herpetiform and they require different treatment possibly by the dentist.
Treatments that are commonly used for major canker sores include prescription oral medications like antibiotics and antiviral medicines such as Acyclovir.
In some cases although rarely corticosteroids are prescribed for treatment of canker sores.