Mouth sores are never fun, and they can be even more frustrating when you can’t seem to get rid of them. If you’re looking for some natural remedies to help ease the pain and discomfort of mouth sores, look no further.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss several natural treatments that can help eliminate mouth sores. We’ll also discuss tips on preventing mouth sores from occurring in the first place.
If you’re dealing with a pesky mouth sore, read on for some helpful tips!
What Are Mouth Sores, and What Causes Them?
Mouth sores are small lesions that can develop on the lips, gums, tongue, or inside of the cheeks. They can be painful and make it difficult to eat or drink.
Mouth sores can have a variety of causes, including:
- Infections (viral, bacterial, or fungal)
- Allergies
- Autoimmune disorders
- Trauma or injury to the mouth
- Cancer treatment (radiation therapy or chemotherapy)
- Hormonal changes
- Dry mouth
- Excessive use of methamphetamines
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Mouth Sores?
The most common symptom of a mouth sore is pain. Mouth sores can also make it difficult to eat or drink and cause bad breath.
Other signs of mouth sores include:
- Redness
- Swelling
- Blisters
- Ulcers
- Crusting
Natural Remedies for Mouth Sores
A few home remedies can help soothe the pain and discomfort of mouth sores. These include:
1. Applying Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory properties that can help heal mouth sores. Apply a small amount of gel to the sore using a cotton swab. Repeat this process several times per day.
2. Baking Soda Rinse
Baking soda is a natural antacid that can help neutralize the acids in your mouth, which can irritate mouth sores. Mix one teaspoon baking soda with 8 ounces of warm water and rinse your mouth for 30 seconds. Spit the mixture out and repeat as necessary.
3. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil has antiviral, antifungal, and antibacterial properties. Apply a small amount of coconut oil to the sore using a cotton swab. Repeat this process several times per day.
4. Eating Healthy Food
Eating nutrient-rich foods can help speed up the healing process. Some good options include fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains. Avoid spicy, acidic, or crunchy foods that can irritate the sore.
5. Salt Water Rinse
This can help reduce inflammation and pain. Mix one teaspoon salt with 8 ounces of warm water and rinse your mouth for 30 seconds. Spit the mixture out and repeat as necessary.
6. Using A Humidifier
A humidifier can help add moisture to the air, which can help soothe a dry and irritated mouth.
7. Using A Cold Compress
A cold compress can help numb the pain of mouth sores. Simply wrap ice in a clean cloth and apply it to the sore for 10 minutes. Repeat as necessary.
If home remedies aren’t enough to ease your symptoms, you can try an over-the-counter pain reliever such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. However, follow the directions on the bottle and never take more medication than recommended.
When to See a Doctor
Mouth sores are usually harmless and will go away on their own within a week or two. However, it’s important to see a doctor if you have a mouth sore that:
- Lasts longer than two weeks
- Is extremely painful
- Is accompanied by other symptoms (such as fever or difficulty swallowing)
Your doctor can determine the cause of the sore and prescribe medication to help speed up the healing process.
Mouth Sores Prevention Tips
You can do a few things to help prevent mouth sores from occurring in the first place. These include:
- Avoiding acidic or spicy foods
- Avoiding chewing gum and eating hard candy
- Avoiding stress
- Drinking plenty of fluids
- Limiting your caffeine intake
- Not smoking or using tobacco products
- Practicing good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing your teeth regularly.
- Using a lip balm to keep your lips moisturized, especially during winter
If you are prone to mouth sores, take steps to prevent them. If you develop a mouth sore, try one of the home remedies listed above. And if the sore lasts longer than two weeks or is accompanied by other symptoms, be sure to see a doctor.
