How to Cure Canker Sores – 7 Tips

Canker sores are lesions (ulcers) that appear on the inside of the mouth, which may result in severe discomfort; it is for this reason why many people are always searching for information on how to cure canker sores. They occur commonly on the tongue, cheeks or on the lips and may last anywhere from four days to fourteen days. Although, the cause of these sores is relatively undetermined, there are certain factors which tend to increase your risk; including hereditary factors, over-reaction to the streptococcus bacteria (commonly found in these sores), allergies, and quite often trauma via use of a stiff toothbrush. Other not verified causes may include deficiency of the B vitamin cyanocobalamin (B12), stressful conditions or being a woman close to her menstrual cycle. With this understood, it is time to give you some simple tips on how you can cure the canker sores.

How to Cure Canker Sores Using Home Remedies

When the question “how to cure a canker sore?” is asked on the internet, more often than not, people are seeking simple home remedies. Outlined are the most common, yet effective remedies for curing your canker sores;

Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide has been used since its introduction as an antiseptic agent. Due to the presence of large amounts of the streptococcus bacteria, and the ability of hydrogen peroxide to act as a bacteriostatic (stop growth and development of bacteria), there is merit in this use. The mechanism behind this action is thought to be due to the release of carbon dioxide upon application, resulting in a “ evacuation” of the bacteria.

Yoghurt

Besides the yummy taste, yoghurt is one of the best ways to treat canker sores. Yoghurt contains naturally beneficial bacteria, called probiotics, which in laboratory and real world studies show the ability to reduce susceptibility to certain bacterial infections.

Baking Soda and Salt

This combination is one of the most common and effective ways to cure a canker sore. Quite commonly however, a salt water solution may be formed by dissolving one teaspoon of salt in some warm water and gargling around the mouth for a few seconds, and used as a sole agent. The addition of baking soda helps on the formation of a paste, which is then applied directly to the canker sores. The theory behind this practice stems from the need of bacteria for an acidic environment. Baking soda and salt water effectively increase alkalinity of the mouth, resulting in death of bacteria.

Use of Tea Bags (Chai)

Chai tea bags consist of a blend of spices, including clove black tea leave and cinnamon. Separately, these are all considered somewhat effective means how to cure a canker sore, but collectively they are significantly more potent. Although this method may be the least enjoyable thing you taste, it delivers results in the end. To use, place a teabag on the affected area, and just suck on it. This helps to release the active constituents and decrease acidity (improve alkalinity). This method may stain teeth, so proper brushing is mandatory during this phase.

Magnesium Hydroxide

Relax, this is just the technical name for Milk of Magnesia. Milk of magnesia is most commonly known for its antacid and laxative properties, but research has demonstrated a positive role in alleviating canker sore pain and duration. It is most commonly used following hydrogen peroxide. The two in conjunction used this way are an effective means to treat canker sores..

Use of Vitamin C

also known as ascorbic acid, the effect it exerts in canker sores is quite ironic. Vitamin C is actually an alkaline substance, not acidic, so as with the other mechanisms associated with high alkalinity, it becomes hostile to bacteria.

Alum Crystals

Ammonium aluminum sulphate is a dehydrating agent of sorts (pulls water). It helps to dry out the canker sores, causing bacteria to be evicted. Bacteria must thrive in damp environment to grow.

Finally, if all these home remedies fail to elicit a favorable response, the use of prescription strength drugs may give you answers to curing canker sores. Commonly used prescription drugs include anti-histamines, anti-septic mouth rinses, and many others.

How to Cure Canker Sores Summary

Although these ulcers can be very painful and uncomfortable, today there are a variety of ways how a person can treat the canker sores, and decrease re-occurrence of such nuisances. If you are worried about canker sores, or they do not seem to completely heal within 1-2 weeks, you must see the doctor. Sometimes canker sores are mistaken for mouth cancer.

If you have any tips, feel free to comment and share your experience with canker sores at the bottom of this page.