Evidence-based Treatment Approaches for Canker Sores

Canker sores, also known medically as aphthous ulcers, are small, shallow lesions that develop on the soft tissues in your mouth or at the base of your gums. While they can be painful and troublesome, several treatments can alleviate symptoms and potentially reduce the frequency of outbreaks.

Topical Medications

Topical treatments such as over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription creams and gels can provide relief. Ingredients like benzocaine, lidocaine, or fluocinonide can numb the area, reducing pain and discomfort. For severe cases, corticosteroid ointments may be prescribed to reduce inflammation.

Mouth Rinses

Mouthwashes designed to relieve canker sores can help to reduce pain and the duration of the ulcer. A commonly recommended rinse is a steroid mouthwash such as dexamethasone, which reduces inflammation. Alternatively, a mouth rinse containing tetracycline can decrease healing time but must be used carefully to avoid antibiotic resistance.

Nutritional Supplements

Deficiencies in vitamins such as B12, zinc, folic acid, or iron can contribute to the development of canker sores. Supplementation might help prevent them. However, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.

Conclusion

Understanding the underlying cause of canker sores, which can vary from nutritional deficiencies to stress or minor injuries, is crucial for effective treatment. Consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best treatment based on your specific condition.

So, the other day, someone on a forum suggested a homemade salt water rinse for canker sores, and I thought, why not give it a try, right? I mixed a teaspoon of salt with warm water and rinsed my mouth for about 30 seconds. Did the trick for the pain most times, but didn’t really speed up healing. Furthermore, I read somewhere that putting a dab of milk of magnesia on the sore a few times a day can help. Tried it, sort of felt better temporarily, but honestly, no miracles happened. It’s like, you gotta stick to the basics and keep your mouth clean, maybe avoid spicy foods and see if that helps!