A mouth ulcer, also called a canker sore or aphthous ulcer, is a painful sore found inside the mouth. These ulcers can appear as white, red, yellow, or gray spots. They usually heal on their own within 1 to 2 weeks. While the term “mouth ulcer” covers all types of sores inside the mouth, a canker sore is a specific type that typically has a white or yellow center with a red border.
Mouth ulcers are not contagious, meaning you can’t spread them to others, unlike cold sores caused by the herpes virus. Mouth ulcers can cause discomfort when eating, drinking, or talking. They may be small, often less than 5 mm, but can vary in size and appear anywhere inside the mouth, including the cheeks, gums, or tongue.
There are several types of mouth ulcers, including canker sores, fever blisters, and ulcers associated with conditions like hand, foot, and mouth disease or certain nutritional deficiencies. While they are generally not dangerous, they can indicate underlying health issues. Home remedies for mouth ulcers can be effective, as discussed below, to manage pain and promote healing. It’s also essential to avoid specific foods that may irritate the ulcers, such as acidic or spicy items.
What causes mouth ulcers
Mouth ulcers, also known as canker sores, have several specific causes. They are not contagious but can be painful. Here are 10 common causes of mouth ulcers:
- Minor injuries from biting your cheek, brushing too hard, or dental work can lead to ulcers.
- Braces, retainers, or poorly fitted dentures can rub against your mouth and cause ulcers.
- Eating acidic or spicy foods like citrus fruits or tomatoes may trigger ulcers.
- Vitamin deficiencies, especially B12, iron, or folic acid, can cause mouth ulcers.
- Stress and anxiety are common triggers for mouth ulcers.
- Hormonal changes during periods, pregnancy, or menopause can lead to ulcers.
- Allergies to certain bacteria in the mouth can cause ulcers.
- Health conditions like Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, lupus, and Behçet’s disease may cause recurring ulcers.
- Medications such as beta-blockers and pain relievers can cause ulcers as a side effect.
- A weakened immune system from autoimmune diseases, HIV, or organ transplants increases the likelihood of mouth ulcers.
What are the symptoms of mouth ulcers?
Mouth ulcers can cause discomfort and vary depending on their cause. Here are the 10 main symptoms:
- Painful sores appear inside your mouth, often on the gums, tongue, cheeks, or lips.
- The area around the sores may be red and swollen.
- You might feel pain when eating, drinking, or talking, especially if you consume spicy, salty, or sour foods.
- Multiple ulcers may appear at once, not just one.
- Difficulty chewing or brushing teeth due to tenderness in the mouth.
- If dentures or dental appliances cause the ulcer, the irritation may worsen.
- Some ulcers, like those from mouth cancer, might not be painful at all.
- Swollen glands and fever can happen during severe outbreaks.
- Ulcers can take 10 or more days to heal, especially if they are large or recurring.
- Minor ulcers are usually small with red edges, while major ulcers can be larger and more painful.
11 home remedies for mouth ulcers
Mouth ulcers can be painful and irritating, but several home remedies can provide relief and speed up healing. These natural solutions are simple to try and use ingredients easily found at home. Here are 11 natural remedies you can try at home.
1. Salt Water Rinse
A salt water rinse is a simple and effective remedy for healing mouth ulcers. Salt acts as a natural disinfectant and reduces swelling, promoting faster healing. To make it, mix one teaspoon of salt with 1 cup of warm water. Swish the solution in your mouth for 5 to 10 seconds and spit it out. Do not swallow. Repeat this 3 to 4 times a day.
This method soothes mouth ulcers and can also help with sore throats or gum sores. It’s a natural way to clean your mouth.
2. Honey
Honey is an effective home remedy for treating mouth ulcers. Its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties help reduce pain and promote faster healing. Apply a drop of honey directly to the ulcer 4 times daily to prevent infection and reduce swelling. Manuka honey or unprocessed honey works best because it retains more nutrients.
Honey prevents secondary infections and soothes the sore, but avoid leaving it on overnight, as it may harm your teeth.
3. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a proven remedy for mouth ulcers due to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Swishing 1 tablespoon of coconut oil in your mouth for a few minutes reduces bacteria, eases pain, and promotes healing. This practice, called oil pulling, also helps lower plaque levels. Applying coconut oil directly to the ulcer with a cotton pad or clean finger can soothe irritation and reduce inflammation.
Coconut oil contains lauric acid, which fights infections and aids in faster recovery. To prevent health risks like infant botulism, avoid using coconut oil on infants under 12 months.
4. Chamomile tea
Chamomile tea has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that help reduce the pain and swelling from mouth ulcers. To use this remedy, steep a chamomile tea bag in 250 ml of boiling water, let it cool, then apply the tea bag directly to the ulcer for a few minutes. This reduces discomfort and speeds healing. Chamomile tea can also be used as a mouth rinse to treat oral ulcers and inflammation.
This remedy is safe, natural, and effective. It helps with conditions like oral ulcers and rheumatic pain, making it a holistic healing option.
5. Clove oil
Clove oil is a powerful natural remedy with antiseptic and pain-relieving properties. It numbs the area and reduces discomfort caused by mouth ulcers. To use, soak a cotton ball in clove oil and gently apply it to the ulcer for a few minutes. This helps numb the pain and prevent infection. Clove oil contains eugenol, which acts as a natural anesthetic and speeds up the healing process. Applying clove oil two to three times a day can help relieve pain and promote faster healing.
6. Apple cider vinegar (ACV)
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is known for its antibacterial properties, making it useful in treating mouth ulcers. To prepare a rinse, mix 1 teaspoon of ACV with half a cup of water. Gargle with the solution for about 30 seconds, then rinse your mouth with plain water to avoid any irritation from the acidity. ACV helps kill bacteria and balances the pH in your mouth, promoting faster healing. Using this rinse once a day can help reduce inflammation and support recovery.
7. Baking Soda
Baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, is a natural remedy that helps reduce pain and neutralize acidity in the mouth, speeding up the healing of mouth ulcers. To make the paste, mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda with a little water until it thickens. Apply the paste directly to the ulcer, let it dry, then rinse your mouth with water. This process can be repeated as needed until the ulcer heals. Baking soda works by reducing acidity and soothing discomfort.
8. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera’s anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties speed up healing and reduce pain from mouth ulcers. Applying fresh aloe vera gel directly to the sore can soothe irritation and promote faster recovery. Aloe vera also provides essential nutrients like vitamins B1, B2, B6, and C, which aid in healing.
In addition to treating ulcers, aloe vera can help with other oral issues like chapped lips and cold sores. Research shows that aloe vera reduces ulcer size and shortens healing time, making it a safe and effective remedy for mouth sores.
9. Vitamin E Oil
Vitamin E oil is a natural remedy that helps speed up healing and reduce pain caused by mouth ulcers. To use, break open a vitamin E capsule and apply the oil directly onto the ulcer. The oil forms a protective layer over the sore, allowing the tissue to heal faster. You can apply the oil a few times a day for better results. Vitamin E’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties make it an effective home remedy for healing ulcers while providing quick relief from discomfort.
10. Licorice root
Licorice root is a natural remedy known for its inflammatory and antiviral properties. It helps reduce pain and speeds up the healing process of mouth ulcers. To use, mix licorice root powder with water to create a paste and apply it directly to the sore. Alternatively, you can make licorice root tea by steeping the root in warm water and rinsing your mouth with it. This helps soothe the affected area and reduce irritation. Licorice root works effectively by creating a protective coating, allowing ulcers to heal faster.
11. Ice chips
Ice chips can provide quick relief for mouth ulcers by numbing the affected area and reducing pain. Simply place a small ice chip directly on the ulcer and let it melt. The cold reduces inflammation and swelling, soothing the discomfort. Using ice chips is especially helpful for larger or more painful sores. Repeat this process several times a day to manage the pain and ease irritation. Ice chips offer a simple and natural way to alleviate the discomfort caused by ulcers without any side effects.
What Foods Should You Avoid When Having Mouth Ulcers?
When experiencing mouth ulcers, avoid 6 specific foods that can worsen the condition. Spicy foods irritate and include chili peppers and hot sauces. Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits contain citric acid, which irritates both sores and healthy tissue. Coffee and caffeinated tea are also problematic due to their acidity, which can exacerbate irritation. Tomatoes and tomato-based products are high in acidity and should be avoided. Sodas and other carbonated beverages are acidic and can irritate your mouth, while sugar can promote bacteria growth. Lastly, hard or crunchy foods like pretzels and chips create microtears, aggravating existing ulcers.
When to See a Doctor?
If your mouth ulcers last more than two weeks, keep coming back or are unusually large and painful, it’s time to see a doctor. Also, if you notice additional symptoms like high fever, difficulty swallowing, or swollen lymph nodes, these could be signs of a more serious condition. Recurring ulcers may indicate an underlying health issue such as vitamin deficiencies, autoimmune diseases, or gastrointestinal disorders. A healthcare professional can provide proper diagnosis and treatment to address the root cause of the ulcers.
Conclusion
Mouth ulcers can be painful, but they usually heal on their own within 1 to 2 weeks. While they aren’t contagious, they can make eating, drinking, and talking uncomfortable. Causes range from minor injuries to vitamin deficiencies and stress. By using simple home remedies like salt water rinses, honey, or coconut oil, we can reduce discomfort and promote faster healing. Avoiding foods like citrus fruits, spicy dishes, and acidic beverages helps prevent further irritation. If ulcers persist or frequently recur, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional to rule out underlying health conditions.
