Canker sores can be very irritating and painful. They are small ulcers that can appear inside the mouth, including the tongue, gums, and cheek area. Anyone can get canker sores, and in this article, we will discuss ways to cope with them.

Identifying Canker Sores

Canker sores are small, oval-shaped sores that are white or yellowish with a red border. They can appear in clusters or singly and are most often found inside the lips, cheeks, and under the tongue.

Canker sores can cause pain and discomfort when eating, drinking or brushing your teeth or even talking.

Causes of Canker Sores

The exact cause of canker sores is unknown, but they are thought to be related to stress, heredity, or a weak immune system. Certain foods can trigger canker sores. These include spicy or acidic foods, which can irritate the mouth lining.

Other causes include hormonal changes during menstruation, certain medications, and mouth injuries.

Coping with Canker Sores

If you have canker sores, here are some ways to cope:.

Use Over-the-Counter Medications

Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen, can help to reduce pain caused by canker sores. Topical medication, such as benzocaine, can also be applied directly to the sore to relieve pain.

Rinses containing antibiotics and anti-inflammatory agents can also help to reduce pain and promote healing.

Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water can help to keep your mouth moist, which can prevent irritation and reduce pain caused by canker sores. Avoid consuming acidic beverages, such as soda and citrus juices, which can cause more irritation and pain.

Instead, opt for plain water or tea.

Eat Soft and Easy-to-Digest Foods

Eating soft and easy-to-digest foods, such as mashed potatoes, soup, and boiled vegetables, can help to reduce irritation caused by canker sores. Avoid eating spicy, acidic or hard foods, which can make the pain worse.

Rinse with Saltwater

Rinsing with salt water can help to reduce inflammation and promote healing. Mix a tablespoon of salt with a glass of warm water and swish it in your mouth for a few seconds before spitting it out.

Apply Honey

Applying honey directly to the sore can help to reduce inflammation and promote healing. Honey has antibacterial properties that can help to prevent infection.

Use Aloe Vera

Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties that can help to reduce pain and inflammation caused by canker sores. Apply aloe vera gel directly to the sore to reduce pain and promote healing.

Get Enough Sleep and Manage Stress

Canker sores can be triggered by stress and lack of sleep. Getting enough sleep and managing stress can help to prevent the occurrence of canker sores.

Take regular breaks and engage in stress-reducing activities, such as meditation and yoga, to reduce stress levels.

Consult a Doctor if Canker Sores Persist

If you have canker sores that persist for more than two weeks, you should consult your doctor. Your doctor may prescribe medication or recommend additional treatments, such as laser therapy, to promote healing.

Conclusion

Canker sores can be painful and irritating, but there are ways to cope.

Using over-the-counter medications, staying hydrated, eating soft and easy-to-digest foods, rinsing with salt water, applying honey or aloe vera, getting enough sleep, and managing stress can all help to reduce pain and promote healing. If you have canker sores that persist, you should consult your doctor to determine the best course of treatment.