If chewing, sipping water or even talking has suddenly become painful, a mouth ulcer is very likely the culprit. These small sores may look harmless, but the discomfort they cause can be severe enough to stop people from eating properly for days at a stretch. The good news is that most mouth ulcers heal on their own within a few days. Until they do, several ingredients commonly found at home carry natural properties that can calm the swelling, burning and risk of infection around the sore, making the wait far more bearable.
What Actually Causes Mouth Ulcers
There isn't a single reason behind mouth ulcers, rather a mix of factors can trigger them. A deficiency of vitamin B12, iron or folic acid in the body is considered one of the major causes. Beyond that, high stress levels, hormonal changes, an accidental injury inside the mouth, or a weakened ability of the body to fight off infections can all lead to ulcers forming. Home remedies can certainly ease the pain and burning in the meantime, but if the ulcers refuse to heal and linger on for a long stretch, seeing a doctor becomes necessary instead of relying only on remedies.
Salt Water Rinse: The Most Trusted Fix
The single most commonly used remedy for mouth ulcers is rinsing with salt water. Sodium chloride, the compound salt is made of, is nothing unusual for the body, yet when it is dissolved in water and used as a rinse, it helps bring down the excess bacteria present in the mouth. Salt carries antimicrobial properties that stop harmful microorganisms from multiplying further. On top of that, a salt water rinse helps clear away debris collected around the ulcer and reduces swelling, which gradually brings the pain down.
Honey Eases the Pain
Honey has long been relied upon as a remedy for mouth ulcers. It carries both antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which work together to cut down bacteria and reduce swelling around the sore. The natural sugars and other compounds present in honey form a kind of protective layer over the ulcer, which lessens the irritation caused by air or by food and drink coming into contact with it. Honey also contains certain antioxidant compounds that offer additional benefit to the body.
Coconut Oil Can Help Too
Lauric acid, found in coconut oil, is considered its most important property, helping fight both bacteria and inflammation. When the oil is applied to the ulcer, it keeps the area moist. Dry skin inside the mouth tends to cause more irritation, so retaining moisture helps bring the pain down. That said, not everyone's skin reacts the same way, so if applying the oil ends up increasing the irritation instead, it should be stopped right away.
Baking Soda Cuts Down the Burning
Some people also turn to baking soda for mouth ulcers. The sodium bicarbonate in it helps balance the acidic level inside the mouth. When the environment inside the mouth turns overly acidic, both the burning and the pain tend to intensify. Mixing baking soda with water and using it as a rinse keeps the mouth's pH level in check, which in turn eases the burning sensation felt around the ulcer.
Ice or Cold Water Offers Quick Relief
For immediate relief from the pain, ice or cold water can also work well. The cold temporarily reduces the sensitivity of the nerves in that area, which dulls the feeling of pain. However, ice should not be held directly against the ulcer for too long, as that can end up causing further harm. If an ulcer does not heal even after two weeks, it should be checked by a doctor without delay, since a sore that lingers that long could be a sign of something else altogether.
