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Canker sores, or aphthous ulcers, are painful ulcers inside the mouth. This article provides effective strategies on how to get rid of a canker sore in 24 hours using over-the-counter treatments and home remedies like saltwater rinses, honey, and coconut oil.
Follow these tips for quick relief and faster healing.
Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, are small, painful ulcers that form inside the mouth. They often appear on the soft tissues such as the inside of the lips, cheeks, or gums. Unlike cold sores, canker sores are not contagious and do not appear on the lips' exterior. These ulcers can make eating, talking, and maintaining oral hygiene uncomfortable.
Canker sores come in three main types, each varying in size, number, and severity:
According to the Cleveland Clinic publication, the exact cause of canker sores remains unclear, but several factors are known to trigger their development:
If you’re unsure about your symptoms, consider using an online tool like the Symptom Checker to identify potential health issues, but remember, always consult a professional for medical advice.
Just 3 simple steps to efficiently understand and manage your health symptoms online.
A saltwater rinse is a simple and effective home remedy for canker sores. It helps reduce inflammation and bacteria in the mouth, promoting faster healing.
The saltwater rinse can be a bit uncomfortable due to its stinging effect, but it’s effective in cleaning the sore and reducing swelling.
Baking soda helps restore pH balance and reduce inflammation in the mouth, aiding in the healing of canker sores.
Benefits:
Alum powder has astringent properties that can help shrink and dry out canker sores.
Mix a small amount of alum powder with a few drops of water to create a paste.
Alum powder may cause a temporary stinging sensation but is effective in reducing the size and pain of canker sores.
Honey is known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it an excellent remedy for canker sores.
For best results, use raw, unpasteurized honey, as it retains more of its natural healing properties.
Coconut oil has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help treat canker sores and reduce pain.
Coconut oil can also be used as a mouth rinse. Swish a tablespoon of coconut oil in your mouth for 10-15 minutes (oil pulling), then spit it out and rinse with warm water.
Hydrogen peroxide is an antiseptic that can help clean canker sores and reduce bacteria in the mouth.
Yogurt contains live probiotic cultures that can help balance the bacteria in your mouth and support the healing process.
Chamomile has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that can soothe canker sores and promote healing.
Echinacea and sage have natural healing properties that can help with canker sores.
Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and can be effective for canker sores.
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) has antibacterial properties but should be used cautiously due to its acidity.
Using these home remedies can provide quick relief from canker sores and promote faster healing.
Completely healing a canker sore in 24 hours is tough, but you can reduce pain and speed up healing. Use topical anesthetics to numb the area, and apply anti-inflammatory treatments like corticosteroids or NSAIDs to reduce swelling. Rinse your mouth with saltwater or baking soda solutions to cleanse the sore. Home remedies such as honey, coconut oil, and chamomile compresses can also soothe the sore and reduce inflammation, making it more manageable quickly.
Several home remedies can help alleviate canker sores. A saltwater rinse cleanses the sore and reduces inflammation. Baking soda rinses restore pH balance and reduce irritation. Honey, with its antibacterial properties, soothes and promotes healing. Coconut oil's anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties make it effective, while chamomile compresses provide soothing relief and reduce swelling. Yogurt with live cultures balances mouth bacteria and supports healing.
See a doctor if your canker sore is unusually large, lasts more than two weeks, or you have multiple sores. Other signs include severe pain, difficulty eating or drinking, high fever, or frequent recurrence. Consult a healthcare provider if you suspect an underlying issue like a vitamin deficiency or autoimmune disorder. They can offer stronger medications and a comprehensive treatment plan.
Canker sores can be painful, but understanding their causes and treatments helps manage them effectively. Over-the-counter treatments like topical anesthetics, corticosteroids, NSAIDs, and specific mouthwashes provide quick relief. Home remedies such as saltwater rinses, baking soda rinses, honey, coconut oil, and chamomile compresses are also effective.
Seek medical help if sores persist, are unusually large, or cause severe pain or fever. Good oral hygiene and stress management can prevent future outbreaks.
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