Do you know what the most annoying thing is about canker sores? They seem to pop up out of nowhere and last forever. While these mouth sores are generally harmless to your health, they pose an inconvenience to your ability to eat and drink. Luckily, there are a few ways to knock these bad boys right out without having to suffer for a week.
Coconut oil
Known for its various uses, which was even mocked in a "Saturday Night Live" commercial parody for its ability to add flavor to brownies and polish furniture, coconut oil also receives praise as a canker sore remedy. This miracle natural oil that has uses for just about everything can sooth the burn and pain caused by canker sores. By swishing around a solution of coconut oil and water or just dabbing a bit in your problem area, you can banish canker sores in as little as a day. Add a drop of oregano oil and you'll be able to expedite the healing process.
Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil is a natural disinfectant and can be used instead of harsher substances like hydrogen peroxide to get rid of canker sores. Mix together a solution of water and a splash of tea tree oil, and rinse your mouth once or twice a day.
Aloe vera
Hailed for its soothing and healing properties, aloe vera can do just as much good for your mouth as it can for your skin. Aloe vera can be used in the form of a juice or gel, both of which are recognized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as acceptable modes of use to clear canker sores. Unlike some other remedies, aloe vera does not leave a bad taste in the mouth, nor does it sting when you apply it. Whether you have canker sores on the tongue, cheeks or lips, aloe vera is a great way to treat them.
"There is good evidence to support using aloe vera for oral health problems," Academy of General Dentistry spokesperson Kenton A. Ross, told Medical News Today. "I believe a number of patients will be interested in this inexpensive alternative."
Apple cider vinegar
If you haven't noticed, there's a theme with these canker sore remedies: They are all multi-purpose wonder solutions with natural properties. Apple cider vinegar may be a little harsher to your canker sore than others that have been suggested, but this treatment will work. You can saturate a q-tip on one side with the liquid and hold it on the sore for about one minute. Apple cider vinegar can also be used as a rinse with water. Swish this around your mouth for about a minute and repeat daily until the sore is gone.
Just prevent them
While using spot treatments are great for getting rid of sores when they pop up, preventing them before they appear is even better. In addition to using natural solutions to get rid of canker sores, TheraBreath has a line of products specially designed to zap those annoying mouth ulcers. Because the products are made with "healthier" ingredients, no artificial flavorings or dyes, they are sensitive to the mouth and won't irritate any sores that are present. Plus, TheraBreath toothpaste will help prevent canker sores from popping up in the future. If you find yourself constantly suffering, check your current toothpaste's ingredients for sodium lauryl sulfate. This additive is found in most toothpastes as well as laundry detergent, bleaching agents and liquid hand soaps. Do your mouth a favor and ditch this harsh chemical.