How to Treat a Canker Sore

Canker sores are small sores that usually occur inside the mouth. They can be both uncomfortable and painful, often making talking or eating troublesome. Canker sores can occur for a variety of reasons, including stress, injuries and poor nutrition. People are more susceptible to canker sores when their immune systems are weakened because of sickness, stress or lack of sleep. Thankfully, there are various things you can do to treat canker sores.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Over-the-counter medication
• Lysine
• Salt
• Water
• Iron
• Vitamin B1
• Folic acid

1. See your doctor. If you have a canker sore that doesn't go away within a few days, opt for a doctor's visit. Your doctor can prescribe a mouth rinse to treat your canker sore. Prescription mouth rinses often contain steroids or antibiotics to treat the sores.

2. Use an over-the-counter medication. Various topical treatments treat canker sores. Generally, these are pastes, creams or balms that you apply directly to the sores. You can find such treatments in most drug stores.

3. Take Lysine. Found in most health and drug stores, Lysine is a supplement that aids in mouth health. Take 1,000 mg of Lysine to help your canker sores heal more quickly.

4. Rinse with a salt mixture. Mix 4 tbsp. salt with 4 oz. warm water. Swish the mixture around your mouth for approximately 30 seconds before spitting it out. The salt helps to kill bacteria that may be worsening your canker sores.

5. Sleep. If your immune system is weakened, you need to fortify it by getting plenty of sleep. Aim for at least 7 hours nightly.

6. Consume a healthy diet rich in nutrients. Make sure you are getting sufficient amounts of iron, vitamin B1 and folic acid. Deficiencies in any of those vitamins can cause and worsen canker sores.

7. Maintain good oral hygiene. Brush your teeth twice daily and floss once daily. Poor dental hygiene can exacerbate canker sores.

Tips & Warnings

• Canker sores are not contagious.

References

• Mayo Clinic
• Holistic Online

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[bambi1074]

on 10/3/2009 Very good article and helpful tips.5*