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5 Ways To Get Rid of Canker Sores Naturally

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Medically Reviewed By Colgate Global Scientific Communications

There are few things more irritating than trying to enjoy eating or drinking with an inflamed and painful canker sore demanding to be noticed in the inside of your mouth. But how do you heal them, and are there any natural solutions? The answer is – yes! And we’re here to help you out.

Common Causes of a Canker Sore

Most canker sores look like round or oval ulcers with a white or yellow center and a red border. They develop on the lining of the cheeks, lips, and tongue or at the gumline. There are many things canker sores, including:

  • Viral infection
  • Stress
  • Hormonal fluctuations
  • Food allergies
  • Vitamin or mineral deficiencies
  • Mouth injury

How to Soothe It

According to the American Dental Association (ADA), canker sores usually heal on their own in one to two weeks. However, there are several over-the-counter treatments and natural remedies you can try to help soothe and heal your canker sore quicker. Over-the-counter medicines like topical anesthetics and antimicrobial mouthrinses are great for providing relief from a canker sore, but store-bought remedies are not your only option for healing.

Natural Remedies

  1. Stay Away from Citrus
    Certain foods can cause and irritate canker sores, so it’s best to stay away from these while you’re trying to heal up. Foods that are hot in temperature, spicy, citrus, or acidic can agitate your sore and make it more inflamed. Instead, opt for softer, more bland foods like spinach, yogurt, salmon, or kale to calm the breakout.
  2. Salt Water
    Rinsing with salt water can dry out canker sores and keep them from swelling. Mix one teaspoon of table salt in a half cup of warm water and swish it around your mouth for 15 to 30 seconds before spitting it out. Rinse with salt water as needed.
  3. Zinc Supplements
    Vitamin or mineral deficiencies, like low levels of iron, folic acid, vitamin B12, or zinc, can cause canker sores. Zinc supplements not only help reduce the frequency of canker sore production they also boost your immune system to keep you fighting germs all day long! Always follow the manufacturer’s directions when taking supplements.
  4. Aloe vera
    Aloe vera has multiple potential uses in dentistry, including reducing the pain caused by canker sores and accelerating the healing process. To utilize Aloe vera's healing benefits, apply the gel from the plant directly to the canker sore or try drinking Aloe vera juice.
  5. Apple Cider Vinegar
    Apple cider vinegar is a staple in home remedy solutions. And, good news for canker sore sufferers, its antibacterial properties might help clear up your canker sore! To give this method a try, mix a solution of 1 part Apple cider vinegar and two parts water, dip a cotton swab into the solution, and dab it on your canker sore. Remember, vinegar can damage your tooth enamel if overused, so be sure to apply it carefully.

Canker sores can be a painful inconvenience, but these tips and tricks will help make them a little more bearable. As always, don’t forget to talk with your dental professional if your canker sore has not healed in one to two weeks or if you have other concerns about your oral health. Remember that home treatments do not replace professional care.

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This article is intended to promote understanding of and knowledge about general oral health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.

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