How to Treat Mouth Ulcers

By Riko Kawasaki

If you have painful, white lesions inside your mouth, then most probably you have what is called mouth ulcers or canker sores. Usually, this does not need treatment as they often go away on their own. However, simple things like talking, brushing the teeth, and even eating can become a painful experience if you have mouth sores.

Stress, smoking, hormonal changes, and deficiency in vitamins such as ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) and cobalamin (Vitamin B₁₂) are common grounds for getting canker sores. Sometimes, this can also be attributed to viral and bacterial infections and certain medicines that you have taken.

One of the easiest to treat diseases, mouth sores can be treated using home remedy options or through oral medication. Gargle with tomato juice at least three times a day to eliminate your mouth ulcers. If preparing the juice is a hassle, try biting or eating one. You still get the same result. Chewing on guava leaves also provides the same effect. In just a few days, your canker sores are gone and talking will be a breeze again.

Another herb that is known to cure mouth sores is basil leaves. Chew about 5 leaves at least three times a day. Do this together with water and in a short span of time, your canker sores are gone. Another thing about basil leaves is while it is treating your canker sore, you also get fresher breath. Alternatively, gargling with warm water with salt also relieves you of the pain mouth sores bring. Somehow, the salt solution numbs the sores and will make it easier for you to eat and talk.

Sodium bicarbonate is another option. Combine a small amount with water and gargle with it at least three times a day. If you have peppermint oil at home, apply a small amount directly on the white patches and your mouth ulcers will be gone in no time. Canker sores normally heal within two weeks. If it goes beyond that time frame, go see your doctor for further analysis of your canker sore. Your doctor will most probably advise you to apply corticosteroids or paste treatments for the swelling.

Neither harmful nor contagious, mouth ulcers can really be very painful especially when you accidentally hit them with your teeth or bite them. Do any of the above home remedy solutions or opt for over-the-counter medication and relieve yourself of the discomfort.

Riko Kawasaki is a diet fanatic who also works in the professional fitness industry. She believes that health and fitness starts with what we put in our bodies. You can check out some of Riko’s latest articles about postage scale and digital bathroom scale.