How to Cure Mouth Ulcers Fast Naturally?

Mouth ulcers are tiny sores or wounds that can appear on the lips, tongue, gums, inner cheeks or gum line. They usually have an oval or spherical shape, a white or yellowish centre, and a red border. These painful wounds, which can vary in size, give people an unpleasant feeling when they eat, drink, or brush their teeth.

Mouth ulcers often cause little pain or discomfort and disappear on their own in a week or two. However, some forms of mouth sores may indicate underlying medical illnesses such as infections, autoimmune diseases, or digestive problems. Fortunately, a number of herbal treatments can cure mouth ulcers and speed up recovery.

Different Types of Ulcers 

There are several varieties of mouth sores and lesions, including:

1. Canker sores (aphthous ulcers) - These are the most typical kinds of mouth ulcers. Minor trauma (such as biting your face), acidic meals, and even stress might be the root of these. Canker sores typically have red borders surrounding a white or yellow center.
2. Leukoplakia - This condition develops white or grey spots inside the mouth. It arises as a result of excessive cell proliferation. It can be caused by chronic inflammation from things like smoking or chewing tobacco. But it does happen from time to time for no apparent cause. 
3. Oral Lichen Planus - The condition called oral lichen planus, an immune system reaction, can result in lace-like, white ulcers in your mouth as well as irritating skin rashes. The majority of women over the age of 50 are most frequently affected by it.
4. Erythroplakia - Another sign of smoking or using tobacco is Erythroplakia. Red spots tend to show up under the tongue or below the lower front teeth of those who have Erythroplakia.  
5. Oral Thrush - This oral fungus infection is brought on by a yeast overgrowth known as Candida Albicans. After taking antibiotics or when your immune system isn't functioning as well as it typically does, it frequently occurs. The mouth sores and patches associated with oral thrush are red and creamy white.
6. Mouth cancer - Red or white mouth sores or ulcers may be present with oral cancer lesions. These wounds do not heal on their own.

Causes of Mouth Ulcers

Mouth ulcers can develop due to a variety of causes, such as:

• Stress
• Not enough sleep
• Minor tissue damage, which can be a result of dental procedures, like filling a cavity.
• Consuming acidic foods, such as strawberries, pineapples, and oranges.
• Biting your tongue or cheek unintentionally.
• Using toothpaste that is rough or harsh.
• An allergic response to certain germs.
• Changes to hormones during menstruation.
• Braces or ill-fitting dentures often rub and irritate the delicate tissues in the mouth.

12 Natural Remedies To Cure Mouth Ulcers

Here are a few efficient methods to get rid of mouth ulcers naturally:

1. Saltwater Rinse: Saltwater rinsing is one of the most popular and effective treatments used to cure mouth ulcers fast home remedies. The saltwater rinse helps speed up the drying process for canker sores, even if it may hurt the lesions in the mouth.

2. Honey: Honey can be used to cure ulcers in the mouth at home since it has powerful antibacterial and anti-inflammatory qualities. Honey can lessen a mouth lesion's size, discomfort, and swelling while also preventing subsequent infection. For the best and quickest results, apply honey to the sores three to four times each day. 

3. Aloe Vera Gel: Apply fresh aloe vera gel by squeezing it fresh from an aloe leaf to treat mouth ulcers quickly. Aloe vera contains medicinal qualities, such as anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial actions, which help hasten healing.

4. Coconut Oil: A wonderful treatment for mouth ulcers brought on by bacteria is coconut oil, which has antibacterial qualities. Additionally, coconut oil stops the spreading of disease. It reduces discomfort and redness in the surrounding region because of its excellent anti-inflammatory properties. Apply liberal amounts of coconut oil to the lesion using a cotton ball or fingertip to cure mouth ulcers naturally. 

5. Chamomile Tea: After brewing a chamomile tea bag in boiling water, let it cool. To rinse the mouth, swirl some cooled tea around for around 30 seconds. With its calming qualities, chamomile can assist in easing pain and inflammation.

6. Use Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) to Rinse: Mouth ulcers are one of the many health problems that ACV can treat. It eradicates the microorganisms that cause the pain from mouth ulcers or sores. One should apply this cure carefully since some people may have mouth sore irritation from acidic meals.  

• Mix a cup of water and one teaspoon of ACV together.
• Use this combination to rinse the mouth for 30 to 60 seconds.
• Spit it out, and then brush your teeth.

7. Icing: Painful feelings can be reduced by numbing the sore. To relieve pain & suffering and to heal an ulcer in the mouth fast, take an ice lolly or rub it on the sores. 

8. Rinse With Baking Soda: Another component that can be used to treat mouth ulcers is sodium bicarbonate, sometimes known as baking soda. Baking soda reduces swelling and helps restore the pH balance in the mouth, which in turn can ease mouth sores.  

• Add around one teaspoon of baking soda to the half cup of water.
• Spit out the salty liquid after swirling it in the mouth for 20-30 seconds.
• Repeat 5-6 times each day. 
• Although swallowing baking soda won't do any harm, it's best to avoid doing so because of how salty it is. 

9. Sage Mouthwash: Fresh sage leaves can be boiled in water, strained, and then allowed to cool. Apply the sage-infused water to the mouth as mouthwash, swishing it about for approximately 30 seconds and then spitting it out. Because of its antibacterial characteristics, sage can help to cure mouth ulcers in one day.

10. Clove oil: Using a cotton swab, apply a tiny quantity of clove oil on the ulcer to cure mouth ulcers instantly. The natural analgesic and antibacterial qualities of clove oil may be helpful in relieving pain and killing germs.

11. Vitamin B12: Consume vitamin B12-rich foods or a vitamin B12 supplement. This vitamin is essential for oral health and helps speed up the recovery from mouth sores.  

12. Maintain Oral Hygiene: Use a toothbrush with soft bristles to gently clean your teeth while carefully avoiding the ulcer. Use toothpaste without sodium lauryl sulfate to avoid irritating sores. 

Foods to Avoid

Here is a list of foods to stay away from if one has mouth ulcers:

• Spicy Foods: Spicy foods can irritate the sensitive tissues of the mouth, including the ulcer itself. The capsaicin in spicy foods can trigger a burning sensation and exacerbate pain associated with the ulcer.
• Foods that are Crunchy or Hard: Foods like chips, pretzels, and hard candies can scratch or further irritate the ulcerated area. This can delay healing and increase discomfort.
• Citrus Fruits and Juices: Citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, and grapefruits, as well as their juices, are acidic. The acidity can sting and irritate mouth ulcers, causing additional pain and discomfort.
• Coffee and Caffeinated Tea: Coffee and caffeinated tea can be irritating to mouth ulcers due to their acidity and caffeine content. Caffeine may also increase sensitivity, making the ulcer feel more painful.
• Sodas and Other Carbonated Beverages: Carbonated drinks can have a similar effect as acidic citrus juices. The bubbles and acidity in sodas can irritate the ulcer and prolong healing.
• Alcohol: Alcohol can irritate mouth ulcers due to its acidic nature. It can also dry out the tissues in the mouth, making the ulcer feel more painful and slowing down the healing process.

Avoiding these foods and beverages can help minimize discomfort and promote faster healing of mouth ulcers. Instead, opt for soft, bland foods that are easier on the mouth and won't aggravate the sensitive ulcerated areas. Also, maintaining good oral hygiene and using mild oral care products can also aid in reducing irritation and promoting healing.

What are the antiseptic rinse treatment options for Mouth Ulcers?

Antiseptic rinses can be effective treatment options for mouth ulcers, providing relief and promoting healing. Here’s how they work and their benefits:

• Antiseptic Properties: Antiseptic rinses contain ingredients like chlorhexidine, hydrogen peroxide, or benzalkonium chloride. These substances help to kill bacteria and prevent infection in the ulcerated area.
• Reduced Irritation: Rinses can soothe the ulcer and reduce irritation caused by bacteria and food particles that may aggravate the sore.
• Promotes Healing: By keeping the ulcer clean and free from bacteria, antiseptic rinses create an environment conducive to healing. This can shorten the duration of the ulcer and alleviate symptoms sooner.
• Pain Relief: Some antiseptic rinses also have mild numbing properties or soothing agents like aloe vera or chamomile, which can provide temporary relief from pain and discomfort associated with mouth ulcers.
• Ease of Use: Antiseptic rinses are typically easy to use and can be applied directly to the ulcerated area with a swish-and-spit technique or applied using a cotton swab for a more targeted application.
• Adjunct Therapy: They can be used alongside other treatments such as topical gels or creams prescribed by healthcare providers to enhance overall treatment effectiveness.

Prevention of Mouth Ulcer 

Although you cannot completely prevent mouth ulcers, there are steps you can take to lower your chances:

• Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once daily.
• Use a toothbrush with soft bristles to prevent irritation of the tissues.
• Follow a nutritious diet that includes plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables.
• Regularly schedule dental checkups and cleanings with your dentist.

Mouth ulcer vs. canker sore: What’s the difference?

The term "mouth ulcer" is a general term used to describe any sore or ulceration found inside the mouth. Canker sores are the most common type of mouth ulcer, affecting approximately 20% of the population. Many people use "mouth ulcer" and "canker sore" interchangeably.

Canker sores can happen due to low levels of folate, vitamin B, or iron, but often they appear without a clear reason. They can come back throughout a person's life, appearing and going away from time to time.

Some people mix up canker sores with cold sores, but they are different. Canker sores are inside the mouth, while cold sores usually appear on the lips. Unlike cold sores, canker sores aren't contagious.

When to Seek Professional Help for Mouth Ulcers?

Consider speaking with a dentist or oral medicine professional if you have mouth ulcers. The primary care doctor can offer recommendations and counselling as needed. If skin issues are present along with ulcers, dermatologists may be of assistance.

FAQs

1. What is the fastest way to cure mouth ulcers?

While there's no instant cure, you can speed up healing by using topical treatments like over-the-counter gels (e.g., benzocaine) or prescribed mouthwashes containing steroids. Avoid irritating foods and maintain good oral hygiene.

2. Why are mouth ulcers so painful?

Mouth ulcers are painful because they expose sensitive nerve endings in the mucous membrane of the mouth. Factors like inflammation, irritation, and infection contribute to this pain.

3. How can I stop getting mouth ulcers?

To reduce the risk of mouth ulcers, avoid triggers like spicy and acidic foods, manage stress levels, maintain good oral hygiene, and ensure a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals.

4. Can I put salt directly on a mouth ulcer?

Yes, rinsing your mouth with warm salt water (about 1 teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water) can help soothe the ulcer and promote healing. Avoid putting undissolved salt directly on the ulcer as it may cause more irritation.

5. What are the foods that cause mouth ulcers?

Foods that can trigger or irritate mouth ulcers include acidic fruits and juices (like citrus), spicy foods, crunchy or hard foods, and sometimes chocolate and nuts. Everyone's triggers can be different.

6. How long do mouth ulcers last?

Mouth ulcers typically heal within 1 to 2 weeks, depending on their size and severity. Larger or more severe ulcers may take longer to heal.

7. Are mouth ulcers contagious?

No, mouth ulcers are not contagious. They are often caused by factors like stress, hormonal changes, injury from dental work, or immune system issues.

8. What are the tablets for mouth ulcers?

Tablets for mouth ulcers may include over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain relief. In some cases, doctors may prescribe corticosteroid tablets to reduce inflammation and speed up healing for severe ulcers.