Home Treatments for Mouth Ulcers
Suffer from painful mouth ulcers? Discover effective and easy-to-do home treatments like salt water rinses, honey, coconut oil, and more to soothe discomfort and speed up healing naturally. Learn when to seek professional help.
Home Treatments for Mouth Ulcers
Mouth ulcers, also known as canker sores, are small, painful lesions that develop inside the mouth—on the gums, tongue, lips, or inner cheeks. While they are usually harmless and heal on their own within a week or two, the discomfort they cause can make eating, drinking, and even talking difficult.
The good news is that many effective home remedies can help soothe the pain and speed up healing. In this article, we’ll explore simple, natural treatments you can try at home to manage mouth ulcers effectively.
Understanding Mouth Ulcers
The common symptoms and potential causes include:
Common Symptoms
- Small, round, or oval sores with a white or yellowish center and a red border.
- Pain or burning sensation, especially when eating spicy or acidic foods.
- Swelling or tenderness around the sore.
Possible Causes
- Minor mouth injuries (e.g., accidental biting, dental work, or brushing too hard).
- Stress or hormonal changes.
- Vitamin deficiencies (especially B12, iron, or folate).
- Acidic or spicy foods.
- Weakened immune system.
Consult Top Physician
Effective Home Remedies for Mouth Ulcers
Effective home remedies for mouth ulcers are:
1. Saltwater Rinse
Salt has natural antiseptic properties that help reduce inflammation and prevent infection.
How to use:
- Dissolve 1 teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water.
- Swish the solution in your mouth for 30 seconds, then spit it out.
- Repeat 2-3 times a day for relief.
2. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil has antimicrobial and antiinflammatory properties that can help heal ulcers faster.
How to use:
- Apply a small amount of virgin coconut oil directly to the ulcer.
- Repeat 2-3 times daily.
3. Honey
Honey is a natural antibacterial and wound healing agent that can reduce pain and speed up recovery.
How to use:
- Dab a small amount of raw honey onto the ulcer.
- Leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing (optional).
- Repeat 2-3 times a day.
4. Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe vera soothes irritation and promotes healing due to its antiinflammatory properties.
How to use:
- Extract fresh aloe vera gel from the leaf.
- Apply it directly to the ulcer.
- Leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing.
- Repeat 2-3 times daily.
5. Turmeric Paste
Turmeric has strong antiseptic and antiinflammatory effects.
How to use:
- Mix turmeric powder with a few drops of water to make a paste.
- Apply it to the ulcer and leave it for a few minutes before rinsing.
- Use once or twice daily.
6. Yogurt or Probiotics
Probiotics help balance mouth bacteria and reduce ulcer recurrence.
How to use:
- Eat plain, unsweetened yogurt daily.
- Alternatively, take probiotic supplements (consult a doctor if needed).
7. Baking Soda Rinse
Baking soda neutralizes acidity and reduces pain.
How to use:
- Mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda in half a cup of warm water.
- Rinse your mouth with it for 30 seconds, then spit it out.
- Repeat twice daily.
8. Clove Oil
Clove oil has numbing and antibacterial properties that relieve pain.
How to use:
- Dilute 1-2 drops of clove oil with a carrier oil (like coconut oil).
- Apply it to the ulcer using a cotton swab.
- Use it once or twice a day.
9. Ice Cubes
Ice helps numb the pain temporarily.
How to use:
- Suck on a small ice cube near the ulcer.
- Repeat as needed for pain relief.
10. Avoid Irritating Foods
- Stay away from spicy, acidic, or crunchy foods that can worsen ulcers.
- Opt for soft, bland foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, or oatmeal.
When to See a Doctor?
Most mouth ulcers heal on their own, but consult a doctor if:
- The ulcer lasts more than 2 weeks.
- It is unusually large or painful.
- You have frequent ulcers (more than 2-3 times a month).
- You experience fever or swollen lymph nodes.
If needed, you can book a consultation with a doctor on Apollo 24|7 for expert advice and treatment.
Preventing Mouth Ulcers
- Maintain good oral hygiene (brush gently, use a soft bristled toothbrush).
- Avoid excessive stress.
- Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins (B12, iron, folate).
- Stay hydrated.
Final Thoughts
Mouth ulcers can be painful, but with these simple home remedies, you can ease discomfort and promote faster healing. If ulcers persist or worsen, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice. For personalized care, consider booking an online consultation with a healthcare professional on Apollo 24|7 today!
Consult Top Physician
Consult Top Physician
Dr. Amitava Ray
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
20 Years • MBBS, DNB (Family Med.), PGDHHM, FRSTM&H. Certificate in Geriatric medicine & Diabetes Management.
Kolkata
Apollo Multispeciality Hospitals , Kolkata, Kolkata
(600+ Patients)
Dr. Rajib Ghose
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
25 Years • MBBS
East Midnapore
VIVEKANANDA SEBA SADAN, East Midnapore
Dr. Hariprasath J
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
19 Years • MD (Gen Med), FCCP, Dip (Diabetology, UK)
Chennai
Apollo First Med Hospitals P H Road, Chennai
(200+ Patients)
Dr Vinay Kumar A V
Nephrologist
8 Years • MBBS, MD - General Medicine, DM - Nephrology
Bilaspur
Apollo Hospitals Seepat Road, Bilaspur
Dr. Sougata Kumar
General Practitioner
8 Years • MBBS
East Midnapore
VIVEKANANDA SEBA SADAN, East Midnapore
