How to Clear Up (and Prevent!) Canker Sores
At some point in your life, you may have suffered from that nagging, irritating pain caused by a canker sore. Although these sores, also called “aphthous ulcers,” most commonly affect teens, young adults, and women, anyone can experience their onset at any time. Several other factors, like stress, hormonal changes, and poor oral hygiene, can also lead to the onset of canker sores. Knowing how to get rid of them when they appear and ultimately prevent their arrival can be life-changing.
Home Remedies for Canker Sores
Some of the most common home remedies for canker sores include oral rinses. Regular mouthwash that contains chlorhexidine can help prevent germs from spreading and the canker sore from worsening. Mouthwash that contains alcohol may exacerbate the pain or severity of your sores, so be sure to check the ingredients accordingly. There are also OTC mouthwashes that contain lidocaine, an ingredient that alleviates pain. The easiest homemade rinses include saltwater rinses or baking soda rinses to reduce inflammation and dry out canker sores.
Some natural remedies for canker sores include milk of magnesia, coconut oil, honey, apple cider vinegar, and zinc. Used topically, each of these remedies helps reduce inflammation and pain produced by canker sores and sometimes makes sores heal faster than they would on their own.
OTC Canker Sore Treatments
Aside from the mouthwashes and natural ingredients above, there are several other over-the-counter canker sore treatments that are effective. Many of these treatments come in gel or cream form and frequently contain lidocaine to decrease pain and inflammation. You can also buy corticosteroids to help with pain and the healing process.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) that contain diclofenac are another anti-inflammatory option for pain relief. If you are pregnant or taking other medications, you should exercise caution and talk to a doctor to see if these options are right for you.
Canker Sore Prevention
Preventing canker sores might seem challenging, especially since they appear when you least expect them. However, some simple lifestyle changes can make a world of difference and decrease canker sore frequency or prevent them altogether.
Regularly brushing your teeth after meals and flossing at least once a day will keep your mouth clean and free of foods that could trigger a sore. Using mouthwash that is right for you will prevent the spread of germs and keep your gums healthy.
Certain dietary changes like cutting out spicy or highly acidic foods can also help prevent canker sores. Drinks high in sugar, like soda, or that are harsh on the gums, like alcohol, can also lead to the onset of canker sores. Removing these from your diet or consuming them less frequently will decrease the severity of your sores.
Photo: via Cankerboy.com
Why Choose Cankerboy?
Cankerboy’s canker sore solution treats and prevents canker sores by providing you with a perfectly balanced dosage of vitamin B12 and other essential nutrients. Many of those who suffer from canker sores have a vitamin B12 deficiency, meaning Cankerboy may be just the solution you are looking for.
Sign up and try the solution for two months for just $20 ($10 per month) to see if it works for you! If you don’t see a change in your canker sores after using Cankerboy, cancel your subscription before your second order and let us know you want a refund. We’ll refund the order you’ve already received and make sure your subscription is canceled.
If you do see a decrease in the number and severity of your sores, we’ll continue sending the solution your way. Choose to live life pain-free today!