Natural Remedies To Cure Mouth Ulcers

Typically, mouth ulcers manifest as sores inside the mouth and are usually red, yellow or white lesions, which may occur singly or in clusters. These ulcers develop on various oral surfaces and cause discomfort during eating, drinking, speaking and toothbrushing.

Some of the common oral surfaces that one can get ulcers on are:

1. Gums.

2. Over and under the tongue.

3. The roof of the mouth.

4. Inner cheeks.

5. Lips.

While mouth ulcers may cause concern, it is crucial to understand that they are not sexually transmitted or contagious. Sharing food or drinks with someone who has mouth ulcers will not spread them. Generally, they are benign and resolve gradually within one or two weeks.

Understanding the symptoms and characteristics of different types of mouth ulcers can help obtain accurate diagnosis and management. It also ensures timely intervention in any possibility of malignancy.

Cranker Sores

Cranker sores are the most prevalent type of mouth ulcer. These are often triggered by minor trauma, acidic foods or stress. They typically manifest as white or yellow lesions with red irritated skin as borders.

Oral Lichen Planus

Oral Lichen Planus are ulcers that are typically an immune system response. They manifest as lace-like white sores inside the mouth and tend to be itchy. These are commonly seen in women or individuals assigned female at birth (AFAB) aged 50 or older.

Leukoplakia

Leukoplakia is a result of excessive cell growth in the mouth. Usually characterised by white or grey patches in the mouth, these ulcers can cause chronic inflammation and irritation. Use of tobacco or smoking are some of the common causes of leukoplakia. Although these ulcers are typically noncancerous, they require monitoring for any potential changes.

Erythroplakia

Unlike leukoplakia lesions, erythroplakia patches are often cancerous or precancerous. They manifest as red, irritated patches behind the lower front teeth or under the tongue. Erythroplakia patches are typically associated with the use of tobacco and smoking.

Oral Thrush

Oral thrush is a type of mouth ulcer that manifests as red and creamy white patches in the mouth. This is caused by an overgrowth of yeast (candida albicans) in the mouth and is known to commonly occur after a course of antibiotics or in individuals with weak immune systems.

Mouth Cancer

Oral cancer lesions can appear as red or white mouth sores or ulcers that fail to heal. If a mouth ulcer persists for more than three weeks, it is advisable to seek immediate medical attention to rule out any malignancy.

Although mouth ulcers can arise from various factors, irritation of the oral tissues is the primary reason for the onset of ulcers.

• Minor tissue injuries:

  Minor tissue injuries resulting from dental procedures like cavity fillings or accidental biting of the cheek or tongue can cause abrasions just deep enough for an ulcer.

• Allergic Reactions:

  Some individuals may experience ulcers due to allergies or an allergic response to certain foods or even bacteria present in the mouth.

• Orthodontic appliances:

  Wearing orthodontic appliances like braces or retainers can lead to irritation of sensitive oral tissues because of the tough materials used in them. This can cause ulcers to form on the gums, the inner lining of the cheeks or even on the edges of the tongue.

• Harsh toothpaste:

  The use of harsh or abrasive toothpaste or even mouthwash regularly can lead to irritation of the delicate oral tissues, leading to ulcers.

• Acidic food:

  Consumption of acidic food like oranges, pineapple and strawberries can trigger ulcers. The bromelain (a protein-digesting enzyme) in pineapple and kiwi can also lead to ulcers as it is a common irritant for oral tissues.

• Hormonal changes:

  Fluctuations in hormonal levels during menstruation cycles or due to medications may increase the likelihood of developing mouth ulcers.

• Stress:

  Emotional stress can weaken the immune system and contribute to the development of oral ulcers.

• Sleep deprivation:

  Inadequate sleep may compromise the immune system of the body, making individuals more prone to mouth ulcers.

In some cases, mouth ulcers could be a manifestation of an underlying health condition. Identifying the possible correlation between various health conditions and mouth ulcers plays a pivotal role in accurate diagnosis and timely intervention in serious health conditions. Recognising the underlying medical conditions can help find a suitable treatment not only for mouth ulcer pain relief but also for the underlying issue.

Here are some health conditions that can cause mouth sores:

• Mononucleosis.

• Celiac Disease.

• Anaemia.

• Vitamin B12 Deficiency.

• Iron Deficiency.

• Hand, Foot And Mouth Disease.

• Pemphigus Vulgaris.

• Hiv And Aids.

• Lupus.

• Crohn’s Disease.

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (Ibs).

• Hpv (Human Papilloma Virus).

• Iron Deficiency.

• Behçet’s Disease.

• Reactive Arthritis.

• Chicken Pox

• Cold Sore Virus

While medical treatments are available, home remedies for mouth ulcers are more accessible and can aid in minimising symptoms. Here are some of the best home remedies for mouth ulcers :

Aloe Vera Gel

Extracted from the leaves of the Aloe Vera plant, Aloe Vera gel is known for its numerous medicinal properties. Used for treating various conditions, this gel also helps with mouth ulcer treatment.

Aloe Vera gel contains compounds such as acemannan, which are potent anti-inflammatory components. Since inflammation and irritation are very common symptoms of mouth ulcers, the gel relieves pain and discomfort by elevating any inflammation and helps promote faster healing.

Moreover, aloe vera also has antimicrobial properties that help prevent bacterial and fungal infections in the ulcerated area and reduce the risk of further complications by providing a safe environment for healing.

Furthermore, the gel’s rich water content acts as a natural moisturiser, preventing any dryness and cracking that could impact the healing process or cause pain. Its mild analgesic properties also help with mouth ulcer pain relief.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple Cider Vinegar is easily one of the best home remedies for ulcers in the mouth.

It possesses antimicrobial properties that help treat mouth ulcers. The acetic acid present in Apple Cider Vinegar can inhibit the growth of bacteria, fungi and even viruses.

This property of acetic acid helps reduce the inflammation around the ulcers, aids in mouth ulcer pain relief and also promotes faster healing. Apple Cider Vinegar is also known to promote tissue healing with its anti-inflammatory properties.

Moreover, the acidity of Apple Cider Vinegar also creates an unfavourable environment for the growth of any microorganism. Termination of harmful microorganisms prevents any further development of ulcers or even worsening of the present lesions.

Baking Soda

Since most ulcers develop in acidic environments, the alkalinity of baking soda helps neutralise the acids and reduce inflammation and pain associated with the ulcers. Baking soda also helps manage the pH of the mouth, ensuring it does not promote any further development in the ulcers. This does not just help with the inflammation but also with mouth ulcer pain relief and tooth decay.

To use baking soda for mouth ulcer treatment, follow these steps:

• Mix 1 TBSP of baking soda with a small amount of water.

• Apply this mixture directly on the ulcer with a clean cotton swab or finger.

• Leave the mixture on for about 5 minutes.

• Rinse thoroughly with water once done.

• Repeat this process several times a day to ensure a speedy recovery.

Cabbage Juice

Cabbage contains potent anti-inflammatory compounds such as anthocyanins and glucosinolates which help with mouth ulcer pain relief. Moreover, Vitamin C, Vitamin K and Vitamin B6 present in cabbage play a crucial role in maintaining oral health and supporting the body's healing process. Vitamin C helps in increasing cell turnover and collagen production and speeds up the healing process.

One can prepare cabbage juice for mouth ulcer treatment with the following instructions:

• Boil raw cabbage in water till it becomes sufficiently soft.

• Cool the concoction slightly.

• Puree it finely in a blender.

• Strain the puree to extract the juice.

• Discard any solids left.

• Drink the fresh juice three to four times a day.

Chamomile Tea

Chamomile Tea is known for its soothing properties. When used to rinse the mouth, chamomile tea is also beneficial for mouth ulcer treatment.

Chamomile contains fantastic anti-inflammatory components. When swirled around the mouth, the tea not only helps elevate the inflammation but also provides mouth ulcer pain relief.

Moreover, chamomile tea reduces the risk of any secondary infections and promote a faster healing process for the lesions.

Follow these instructions to prepare chamomile tea for mouth ulcer treatment:

• Brew chamomile tea in boiling water according to the package instructions.

• Allow the brewed tea to cool.

• Take a sip of the cooled tea and swirl it around the mouth.

• Spit and rinse.

• Repeat this process approximately every 30 seconds till whenever it is comfortable.

• Refrigerate the tea bag and use it as a cold compress if needed.

Clove Oil

Clove oil contains eugenol, which has powerful analgesic properties. When applied directly to the ulcers, clove oil can almost immediately alleviate pain and discomfort. Eugenol helps numb the nerves of the affected area and reduces the sensation of pain, which in turn provides temporary relief.

In addition to analgesic properties, clove oil is a known antiseptic which kills the bacteria that may be present in the oral lesions or the mouth. This process will not only provide a safe environment for healing but also speed up the process by reducing inflammation.

To use clove oil for mouth ulcer treatment, follow these instructions:

• Dip a cotton swab in a small amount of clove oil.

• Dab the affected ears with the clove oil and ensure all areas are coated evenly.

• Let it sit for about 5 minutes.

• Spit the excess.

• Do not rinse.

• Avoid eating or drinking immediately after.

• Repeat the process multiple times a day.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil contains fatty acids, which are known to have antibacterial properties. By inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria, they provide a safe environment for the lesions to heal and also help speed up the healing process.

Moreover, the anti-inflammatory compounds in coconut oil help reduce swelling and pain associated with mouth lesions. The oil's nourishing properties too, help ensure the tissues do not dry out and stay naturally moisturised. This and coconut oil's accessibility make it the best medicine for mouth ulcers that is naturally available.

To use coconut oil for mouth ulcer treatment, follow these instructions:

• Dip a cotton swab in a small amount of coconut oil.

• Dab the affected ears with the coconut oil and ensure all areas are coated evenly.

• Massage the affected areas with the oil for a few minutes.

• Upon finishing, let it sit for about 5 minutes.

• Spit the excess.

• Do not rinse.

• Avoid eating or drinking immediately after.

• Repeat the process multiple times a day.

Honey

Honey is known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It has been used as a home remedy for centuries. In the case of mouth ulcer treatment in particular, it is the best medicine for mouth ulcers in children due to its sweetness and accessibility.

Honey contains natural hydrogen peroxide and other antimicrobial agents that inhibit the growth of bacteria, including those that may contribute to the development of mouth ulcers. By creating a hostile environment for bacteria, honey helps in the healing process and prevents secondary infections.

Moreover, its anti-inflammatory properties help soothe the lesions and elevate the pain that is associated with mouth ulcers. Honey also helps maintain moisture around the lesions, which stops them from drying out or cracking any further.

To use coconut oil for mouth ulcer treatment, follow these instructions:

• Dip a cotton swab in a small amount of raw, unprocessed honey.

• Dab the affected ears with the honey and ensure all areas are coated evenly.

• Massage the honey into the affected areas for a few minutes.

• Upon finishing, let it sit for about 5 minutes.

• Do not rinse once done.

• Avoid eating or drinking immediately after.

• Repeat the process multiple times a day.

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In conclusion, there are ample accessible home remedies for mouth ulcers to choose from. However, it is important to understand that any lesions that last more than two to three weeks require medical attention.

Professional intervention is also required if the lesions keep getting deeper and more painful or if there is a visible increase in their amount over a short period. One should keep in mind that although home remedies can be effective, they are not a long-term cure for medical ailments.

Disclaimer: This is a general guide on natural remedies to cure mouth ulcers. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. It is advisable to consult a qualified health professional for treatment in severe cases.