Mouth ulcers are irritating and painful sores that develop in the mouth. They are fairly common and most people experience these ulcers especially during their youth. Though mouth ulcers generally develop inside the mouth, in rare cases they can develop even on the outside of the mouth. Since the inner lining of the mouth is very sensitive the ulcers can cause the nerves to get exposed and so the pain can be quite extreme. So, opening the mouth can prove quite difficult as the ulcers tend to generate a tingling pain. Mouth ulcers can heal by themselves in a couple of days but if you know the various causes and treatment of these mouth ulcers then it will help you a great deal in avoiding them. These open wounds are either white or yellow and look like boils though they are just an inflammation. Given below are the causes and treatment of mouth ulcers.
Causes And Cure Of Mouth Ulcers
Causes Of Mouth Ulcers
- The most common cause is any form of injury to the mouth. This can result from biting or pricks from the toothbrush.
- Lack of certain vitamins like folic acid or iron is another cause of mouth ulcers. Acidic foods are also a major cause.
- Sometimes allergy due to foods can also lead to mouth ulcers.
- Hormones also play a major role. Since women experience more changes in their hormone levels they are more prone to mouth ulcers.
- Certain types of medications can also cause mouth ulcers.
- In some cases mouth ulcers can also be caused due to heredity.
- The presence of certain bacteria like Helicobacter pylori is another cause.
- Pressure in the immune system as a result of stress and anxiety is also a likely cause.
Treatment Of Mouth Ulcers
- Avoid foods that have high acidity levels. If the ulcer is due to acidic foods then avoid those till the ulcer is healed. Also avoid spicy and salty foods.
- Antibiotic mouthwash is also very effective. Rinse the mouth three to four times with the mouthwash especially after a meal. You can also use aloe vera juice as mouth wash.
- To counter the lack of vitamin in your diet you can go for vitamin supplements. Vitamin B12 supplements are especially effective.
- In cases of severe pain and ulceration you can also go in for immunosuppressant drugs.
- Chewing a couple of holy basil leaves is also an excellent remedy.
- In a cup of water add one teaspoon of coriander leaves and then warm it. Rinse your mouth with this solution three times a day.
- You can also rinse the mouth with a solution of 2 ounces water, 2 ounces hydrogen peroxide, 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of baking soda. Take care that you do not swallow any of the solution.
- For immediate relief from the pain apply toothpaste on the ulcer.
- Placing a slice of onion on the ulcer for a couple of minutes provides relief from the pain and also hastens the healing process.
- Hold a wet teabag against the mouth ulcer for a couple of minutes. The tannic acid in the tea is very effective in curing the ulcer.