Did you know that up to 1 in 5 people in the world get recurrent mouth ulcers (sores)? Usually appearing in the form of a blister or erupted skin, mouth ulcers, also known as “canker sores,” can be found on the lips, tongue, the roof of the mouth or inside the cheeks. 

What Causes Mouth Ulcers?

If you are a victim of having reoccurring mouth ulcers, you may be wondering what the causes are so you can manage it. It's may not always be clear why mouth ulcers appear but a few triggers to be aware of are: 

• Damage from biting the inside of your cheek
• Poorly fitted dentures
• Stress and anxiety 
• Excessive burping 
• Eating certain foods, such as, coffee, spicy food, or cheese
• Smoking 

These common wounds are not only uncomfortable to deal with – but painful! Although many ulcers vanish over a period of 10 days to two weeks, there are various over-the-counter medications available to treat them and lessen the irritation – and we’re bringing you some of the best ones out there. Take a look: 

1. Orajel Antiseptic Mouth Sores Rinse

This mouth wash is available to purchase over the counter at your local pharmacy. It works for all types of mouth sores and promotes the healing of canker sores, cheek bites, gum irritation and denture irritation. It comes in a refreshing mint flavor that also kills bacteria in your mouth. Discomfort and pain will subside after a few days of using this mouth wash as instructed on the bottle. 

2. Dentek Canker Cover Canker Sore Patches

If your sore is located between the cheek and gum of your mouth, these patches may be a wonderful option for you. All you need to do is to dry the sore as much as possible and place the patch down onto the sore for twenty seconds to let it stay in place. After thirty minutes, the patch transforms into a gel-like bandage and eventually dissolves providing instant relief. 

3. Releev Cold Sore Treatment

If you’re not receptive to pills or mouthwash, this may be the best solution for you. Applying this topical paste to the affected area 3 to 4 times daily will minimize the pain and irritation of mouth ulcers. This medication can be used as an antiseptic to help dry cold sores and can be used inside the lips as well. 

Although there is no definitive way to prevent mouth ulcers, there are ways to limit the regularity of their appearances.

• Stay clear of foods and beverages that may irritate your taste buds and mouth (g., spicy/hot foods).
• Maintain a daily routine of brushing and flossing your teeth twice a day.
• Change your toothbrush every three to four months.
• Visit your dentist at least every six months for a routine dental cleaning.

If you are experiencing mouth ulcers on a regular basis, set up an appointment with your dentist to seek professional treatment. Want to try an at home remedy to reduce the pain of mouth ulcers? Learn how to make your own mouth wash with just two ingredients by clicking the image below!