Say Goodbye to Mouth Ulcers: Best Practices and Tips

Most mouth ulcers heal on their own in some time, but if they do not heal on their own, then you should visit a doctor. Your doctor will check whether these ulcers are mouth cancer or not.

It is believed that mouth ulcers are caused by anxiety, mouth injury, genetic factors, IBD and certain foods. If you get frequent ulcers, then definitely visit your doctor. 

Mouth ulcers can also be symptoms of the following serious problems -

• HIV/AIDS 
• Sugar 
• Celiac disease
• Behcet's disease (inflammation of blood vessels of the whole body)

(Read more - Canker Sores)

The following first aid can be done in case of mouth ulcers -

• Mix a little salt in water and rinse with that water. 
• Apply paste or medicine available from medical stores on the ulcers, such as -
• Stolin Gum Paint
• Pyralvex solution
• Anabel Liquid Gel
• Candid Mouth 1% Paint
• Metrohex Gel
• Use a soft brush to brush teeth.
• Do not eat spicy, hot, sharp, hard and chilli foods. This can cause problems for you. 
• Use a paste for brushing that does not contain sodium lauryl sulphate.
• Apply ice on the ulcers. 
• Use a straw to drink cold drinks or cold beverages.

(Read more - How to Treat Mouth Ulcers in Babies)

Although mouth ulcers are a common problem, you should visit a doctor in the following situations -

• If the ulcers are there for 3 weeks and are not healing.
• Painless ulcers in one or more places in the mouth.
• Very large or painful ulcers.
• Recurring ulcers.
• Spreading of ulcers.
• Fever with ulcers.
• Blisters becoming more red or increasing pain in them. This can be a sign of infection. 
• Blisters after starting a new medicine.

(Read more - Oral Hygiene Tips)

Home remedies and proper care can be very beneficial to get relief from pain and discomfort in case of mouth ulcers. First of all, apply honey or desi ghee on the ulcers, as it helps in treating them and reduces irritation. Gargling with lukewarm salt water reduces the risk of infection in ulcers. Chewing basil leaves or drinking coconut water also provides relief. Avoid cold foods, citrus fruits, and spicy foods as these can worsen ulcers.

If ulcers persist for a long time or are very painful, it is important to consult a doctor. Ulcers can be caused by nutritional deficiencies, stress, or allergies, so eat a balanced diet and include foods rich in vitamins B and C. It is also important to stay hydrated and take care of oral hygiene.