Let’s get down to getting rid of that canker sore as quickly as possible. On average, a canker sore can take anywhere from 1 to 2 weeks to heal. However, there are plenty of remedies and treatments available that can target those canker sore trouble spots and really speed up the healing time.
First, lets run through some easy to use and easy to find home remedies. These remedies range from home ingredients that can be found in any kitchen, to items that can easily be purchased at the pharmacy.
There are a variety of options so give them a try and discover which ones are the most effective. Best of luck to you in defeating the evil canker.
Canker Sore Treatments
There are a variety of gels, pastes, mouthwashes and pills on the market that are geared to numb the pain and to help get rid of canker sores. Anesthetic toothpaste or mouth rinses, for example, are good products to use for pain-reduction. Below you will find some popular and effective treatments that can put an end to recurring canker sores.
Canker-Rid
Canker-Rid is an effective and natural product that has been getting a lot of great reviews. Many customers have found that if this treatment is applied when the sore first appears, the ulcer will normally disappear in a matter of 2-3 days. Not only does it speed along the healing time but it is also a fast acting pain reliever.
This treatment uses bee by-products, which is a common ingredient in homeopathic medicine. Those who are allergic to bees should not use Canker-Rid as they could get an allergic reaction.
This product uses propollis, which is a bee resin that stops bacterial and fungal growth. That is why it is such an effective treatment for cankers, as it will kill the bacteria that inflames the ulcer.
Canker Cover
The Canker Cover is a fantastic way to relieve pain and to treat an ulcer. There are many pro’s to using this treatment option. Not only does it give immediate pain relief but it also protects the sore. Eating and drinking will no longer be such a painful ordeal because the canker cover will remain in place and stop further irritation.
Once the clear gel patch is placed on the sore it will last for about 8-12 hours. Pain is relieved by the release of numbing menthol. Many people who have purchased this product have given positive reviews.
The efficacy of all of these treatments is optimized when coupled with some adjustments in diet. For example, when suffering from a canker sore, it is best to avoid all acid-rich foods, or any hard/crunchy foods that may aggravate the exposed wound. Spicy foods, in particular, should be temporarily omitted from the diet. Ice-creams and cool yoghurts have been proven to soothe the pain and irritation of the canker sore.
Home Remedies
Aloe Juice
Aloe is a wonder-ingredient for the treatment of stings, burns and bites, and is just as effective in getting rid of canker sores. Put some aloe juice on the sore several times each day.
It will taste like a dogs breakfast but it will reduce pain and encourage a speedy recovery. It is effective but be prepared for some stinging! Aloe can be found at a pharmacy.
Baking Soda
Baking soda helps the sore heal quickly by reducing the levels of alkalinity and bacteria in the mouth. To prepare, mix half a teaspoon of baking soda with a few drops of water, to make a paste. Apply the paste directly to the sore.
Salt water/ Saline Solution
Salt water is an effective antiseptic for any oral infection. Mix one teaspoon of salt with a cup of warm water, and swish around the mouth for 30 seconds. To speed up the healing of a canker sore try using a salt water/saline solution up to three times a day.
Mouth Wash
Grab some mouthwash and swish it around your mouth. Keeping that canker of yours clean and free of bacteria can really help it heal. The negative of using too much mouth wash is that you will also be getting rid of the good bacteria in your mouth.
Hydrogen Peroxide
This is a powerful antiseptic treatment. Mix a 3% solution 50/50 with water and use it as a mouth rinse. Do not swallow it and don’t over use this solution. It is best to only use a hydrogen peroxide solution when dealing with a mouth infection. If it is applied to the canker earlier on, there is even a chance that the sore will be prevented.
Milk of Magnesia
Milk of magnesia is an effective home treatment for constipation, and is also used as an antacid. It can also help get rid of a canker sore, and is very effective when used after the application of a hydrogen peroxide solution. Apply a dab of milk of magnesia directly to the sore after the hydrogen peroxide, or just use milk of magnesia on its own. Three or four times should do the trick and it will also relieve some pain.
Acidophilus
Acidophilus is a probiotic that is commonly found in yoghurt. It can also be ingested in capsule form. Grab some at a pharmacy. It stimulates the immune system, and is effective at treating and preventing cankers. Take two to four capsules a day, with milk. It will speed the healing process and reduce pain.
Preventing Canker Sores
As the adage goes, prevention is better than cure, and the discomfort caused by canker sores is surprisingly easy to avoid when taking the appropriate preventative measures.
Boost The Immune System
A healthy immune system is key to avoiding a range of infectious oral conditions. By regularly taking in vitamins, coupled with a healthy diet of raw foods, fresh fruit, vegetables and water, you can equip your body to combat the bacteria that cause canker sores. Regular sleep will also ensure that your immune system functions optimally.
Hygiene
Canker sores can be avoided through simple adjustments to your oral hygiene regime. Wash your mouth frequently, using a reliable anti-bacterial mouthwashes and rinses. Change your toothbrush every three to six months to reduce your exposure to potentially harmful germs that could cause canker sores.
Diet
If you find yourself predisposed to the development of canker sores because of a certain type of food, it is important to eliminate that food from your diet. Acidic foods, such as tomatoes and pineapples, nuts and chocolate may be responsible for canker sores.
Reduce Stress
Find effective ways to manage stress in your life. Regular exercise is a trusted means of reducing stress the healthy way. Meditation, yoga and other breathing-based exercises may also prove to be valuable stress-management techniques.
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