To treat mouth ulcers effectively, follow these guidelines:
- Most mouth ulcers heal on their own within 1 to 2 weeks without treatment
- To manage symptoms and reduce discomfort:
- Avoid spicy, salty, acidic, rough, or crunchy foods and hot drinks until the ulcer heals
* Drink plenty of fluids, preferably cool drinks through a straw to minimize irritation
* Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and maintain good oral hygiene; avoid toothpaste containing sodium lauryl sulfate
* Rinse your mouth several times daily with warm salt water (dissolve about half a teaspoon to a teaspoon of salt in warm water), which can relieve pain and reduce infection risk
* Apply over-the-counter topical anesthetic gels or numbing agents such as benzocaine (e.g., Orajel or Anbesol) to reduce pain
* Use alcohol-free medicated mouthwashes, preferably those containing chlorhexidine gluconate, to keep the mouth clean and reduce bacteria
- For more severe or persistent ulcers, a healthcare professional may prescribe:
- Topical corticosteroid mouthwashes, gels, sprays, or lozenges to reduce inflammation and pain
* Immunosuppressant medications in rare, severe cases
* Painkilling gels, ointments, or tablets
- Additional home remedies that may help include applying ice wrapped in kitchen paper to the ulcer, using pastes made from baking soda or milk of magnesia, and placing damp tea bags on the sore
- See a doctor or dentist if:
- The ulcer lasts longer than 3 weeks
* The ulcer is unusually large, painful, bleeding, or located near the back of the throat
* You have other symptoms like ulcers elsewhere on the body, swollen joints, or signs of infection
In summary, mouth ulcers usually resolve on their own, but symptom relief through dietary adjustments, good oral hygiene, saltwater rinses, and topical treatments can improve comfort and healing
