Introduction

Mouth Ulcers (also known as canker sores or aphthous ulcers) are white-reddish, inflamed spots that form on the mucous membrane lining of the mouth, including the cheeks, lips, tongue and gums. Two to four sores frequently appear at the same time and may present with a tingle, burn or a rough sensation.¹

Researchers are currently not certain what causes mouth ulcers, however several studies shows that these sores could be caused by a variety of variables such as stress, a compromised immune system, hormonal changes and a deficiency in Iron or Vitamin B. Some conditions may also cause mouth ulcers to appear after a symptom-free period.¹

Most people have mouth ulcers three to six times a year and these sores may become so painful that it's hardly possible to eat or drink hence this article outlines the various home remedies available for treating mouth ulcers.

Home remedies for mouth ulcers 

Mouth ulcers usually heal on their own without treatment and there is no proven evidence for this but people have reported relief from using the following remedies:²

Saltwater rinse 

• Instructions: Mix 1 teaspoon salt with one cup of water. Swirl the solution in your mouth for 30 seconds, then spit the solution out
• Benefits: Help relieve pain

Sodium bicarbonate paste

• Instructions: Add ½ teaspoon sodium bicarbonate (Baking soda) to the saltwater solution to create a paste that is thick in consistency. Apply the paste directly on the ulcer
• Benefits: Help relieve pain²

Chamomile tea

• Instructions: Swirl diluted Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) tea in the mouth 3-4 times per day
• Benefits: Reduces inflammation and has Antibacterial properties³

Aloe vera juice/gel

• Instructions: Rinse mouth with 1-3 tablespoons of aloe vera juice then swallow, three times daily. Alternatively, apply aloe vera gel extracted from the leaf directly to the ulcer
• Benefits: Reduce pain and inflammation. Restore wound healing⁴

Ice cube

• Instructions: Place the ice cube directly on the mouth ulcer
• Benefits: Numb pain and reduces inflammation⁵

In addition to these remedies, several other household foods, such as yoghurt, honey and coconut oil can be applied or ingested to help treat and prevent mouth ulcers.² Although remedies can be beneficial, applying lifestyle changes to ensure that mouth ulcers are prevented is crucial.

Dietary and lifestyle changes to prevent mouth ulcers

Maintaining a healthy diet and implementing lifestyle adjustments play a vital role in preventing mouth ulcers. The intensity of these excruciating sores can be decreased by focusing on eating a healthy diet, avoiding specific trigger foods, controlling your stress and maintaining good oral hygiene. 

The following are crucial dietary and lifestyle changes to help prevent mouth ulcers:

A balanced diet and trigger foods

Implementing some nutritional supplements and avoiding trigger foods may be helpful in preventing mouth ulcers. Several studies show that people reported relief and ease after taking Vitamins B1, B2 and B6 in a complex, Lactobacillus acidophilus/ bulgaricus tablet three times per day to reduce ulcer soreness.² 

Avoiding foods that are known to trigger ulcer formation and aggravate mouth ulcers may be helpful. Research shows that oranges, pineapples, tomatoes, nuts, eggplant, tea, cinnamon oil, cola and flavouring are dietary allergens that trigger ulcer formation.²

Stress management 

Stress is a predisposing factor for many diseases including, oral ulcers. Studies have shown that stress management can help deal with mouth ulcers by understanding the psychobiology of stress and its impact on the oral mucosa.⁶ 

Some methods that are known to help deal with stress include meditation, exercise and adequate sleep. 

Oral hygiene

• Most toothpastes contain Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) which could potentially cause mouth ulcers. SLS attacks the top players of the mucous membrane. Switching to an SLS- free Toothpaste for several months can help prevent mouth ulcers²
• Mouth ulcers may be avoided by brushing and flossing teeth and gums for two to three minutes each day, as well as by flossing daily²

When to seek medical attention

Although many mouth ulcers can be treated at home with remedies, there are some situations in which consulting with a doctor is crucial. The following are signs that it’s time to visit a doctor regarding your mouth ulcers:

Persist ulcers 

It is highly recommended that you see a doctor or dentist if a sore doesn't heal within 2 weeks or keeps coming back and the inflammation is severe. The healthcare professional will examine the lining of the mouth closely and ask about other symptoms and your eating habits.¹ Should they suspect that the sores are being caused by an underlying medical issue, a swab or blood test will be conducted. 

Infection

If the sores are large and cause severe pain and discomfort it may be necessary to get a doctor's evaluation as these may indicate an infection.⁷ The infection can be noted by fever, swollen lymph nodes in addition to your mouth ulcers. 

It is important to see a physician or dentist as soon as possible if you experience any of the symptoms in order to identify the underlying cause and get treatment early to avoid consequences.

Summary

In summary, although mouth ulcers are common and often painful, they can be managed with home remedies and a change in lifestyle. Remedies such as saltwater rinses, sodium bicarbonate paste, chamomile tea, aloe vera and ice cubes offer relief from the pain and promote healing. 

Additionally, practising good oral hygiene, having a balanced diet and managing stress can prevent the recurrence of mouth ulcers. However, persistent or severe cases require medical attention for a thorough examination. Early intervention can prevent complications and promote a quick recovery.