Effective Remedies to Heal Mouth Sores

Mouth sores can be both painful and bothersome, making everyday tasks like eating and speaking challenging.

These sores can appear for various reasons, from dietary habits to viral infections. While many mouth sores can heal on their own, some may require a little help for quick healing. However, if a sore persists for more than a week, it’s wise to seek professional care.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to understanding and treating these common oral issues.

Understanding Mouth Sores: Cold Sore vs. Canker Sore

Before diving into treatments, it’s important to identify the type of sore you have. Here’s how to distinguish between cold sores and canker sores:

Canker Sores

Appearance: Small, round, and typically white or yellow in the center with a red border.
Causes: Often triggered by stress, minor injuries to the mouth (like from dental appliances), acidic foods, or hormonal changes.
Symptoms: Painful when eating or talking, but not contagious.

Cold Sores

Appearance: Groups of small, red blisters filled with fluid.
Causes: Caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1), these sores are highly contagious. Triggers include stress, sun exposure, and illness.
Symptoms: Tingling or itching before the blisters appear, followed by painful sores.

Effective Home Remedies for Mouth Sores

If you’re dealing with a mouth sore, try these at-home remedies to promote healing and alleviate discomfort:

1. Hydrogen Peroxide Solution

Hydrogen peroxide can help disinfect the sore and speed up healing. Mix one part hydrogen peroxide with one part water, and use it as a mouth rinse. Swish it around for about 30 seconds, then spit it out. Avoid swallowing the solution.

2. Salt Water Rinse

A salt water rinse is a simple yet effective remedy. Dissolve a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water, and rinse your mouth for 30 seconds before spitting it out. This helps clean the sore and reduce inflammation so it can heal faster.

3. Balanced Diet

Heal mouth sores from the inside out by getting enough nutrients. A nutrient-rich diet can improve your immune system and help your body fight off infections. Include foods high in vitamins B12, C, and E, as well as iron and zinc.

4. Topical Treatments

Apply topical treatments such as glycine cream or zinc oxide ointment to cold sores as soon as you spot them. When applied at the first sign of a sore, they can help reduce the duration and severity of the sores.

When to Seek Professional Mouth Sore Treatment

While many mouth sores can be treated at home, some may require professional care. If your sore is unusually large, extremely painful, or hasn’t healed after a week, it’s time to consult a dentist. At Smiles on Souris in Weyburn, we offer treatments to address persistent mouth sores.

Our dentist in Weyburn, SK, provides comprehensive oral health care, including effective treatments for mouth sores. Contact us and schedule your appointment today!