Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, are painful, small, shallow lesions that appear on the inside of the lips, cheeks, tongue and gums. Fortunately, if you start a search online, you can learn about effective home remedies for canker sores.
These sores can make eating, drinking, and speaking difficult and uncomfortable. Although canker sores usually disappear within a week or two without treatment, there are ways to ease the pain and speed up the healing process.
Saltwater Rinse
A saltwater rinse is one of the simplest and most effective home remedies for canker sores, reducing inflammation and promoting healing. To make a saltwater rinse, dissolve 1 teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and swish it around in your mouth for 30 seconds before spitting it out. Repeat this several times a day.
Baking Soda Paste
Baking soda has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that can help relieve canker sore pain and speed up the healing process. To make a baking soda paste, mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda with enough water to form a thick paste. Apply the paste to the affected area and leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing it off with water. Repeat this several times a day.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce pain and promote healing. Apply a small amount of coconut oil directly to the canker sore and leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing it off with water. Alternatively, take a tablespoon of oil and move it around in your mouth until it’s liquid and has coated the area where the sore is located. Repeat this several times a day.
Honey
Honey has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce pain and promote healing. However, not all honey is the same. Avoid the cheap grocery store honey, which has been pasteurized at high heat, and opt for raw, unfiltered honey for the best healing properties. Apply a small amount of honey directly to the canker sore and leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing it off with water. Repeat this several times a day.
Chamomile Tea
Chamomile tea has anti-inflammatory and analgesic (pain relief) properties that can help reduce discomfort and promote healing. Brew a strong cup of chamomile tea, let it cool down, and then swish it around in your mouth for 30 seconds before spitting it out. Alternatively, use the tea bag as a compress, soaking it in warm water before letting it sit on the ulcer for a few minutes. Repeat this several times a day.
When To Go To the Doctor
Although canker sores are usually harmless and go away on their own, there are some cases where you should call your doctor. If you have large canker sores, multiple sores, persistent sores that last more than two weeks, or sores that are accompanied by fever, difficulty swallowing, or swollen lymph nodes, you should consult your doctor. Additionally, if you have a weakened immune system or have recently been diagnosed with cancer, you should also seek medical advice. In some cases, canker sores can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition, and your doctor can help diagnose and treat the cause of your canker sores.