From all the dental discomfort one can experience, mouth ulcers steal the top position with ease. They make eating, drinking, speaking, and every other job one can imagine putting their mouths to a battle. 

Canker sores, another name for mouth ulcers, are bothersome, small lesions that interfere with our regular activities. These tiny lesions frequently develop in the mouth or at the base of the gums.  

Anyone who’s ever had to deal with the ordeal knows how painfully annoying it can be.

But have you ever wondered what mouth ulcers exactly are? How do they develop and how can they be efficiently treated to restore your oral health?

Let's examine this prevalent oral health problem, including its signs and the most effective treatments for prompt remedy!

Understanding Mouth Ulcers

Mouth ulcers are painful sores that can develop anywhere inside your mouth. From the roof to the gum base, there’s no place entirely immune to them. They are sometimes referred to as canker sores or aphthous ulcers. You may have one or many of them. They might be red, yellow, or white. 

Usually benign, mouth ulcers heal on their own in 10 to 14 days without medical intervention. However, proper approaches well within an individual’s modest means must be employed towards getting rid of the problem.

Antimicrobial mouthwashes usually help ease the problem. Mouth ulcers usually go away on their own in one to two weeks. They may nevertheless occasionally be more severe, prolonged, and big. People who have a familial history are more susceptible to getting mouth ulcers.

Consultation with a physician is advised when dealing with painful, big, or chronic ulcers. To effectively manage oral ulcers and alleviate discomfort, one must comprehend their nature. Antimicrobial mouthwashes, as mentioned earlier, can help fix the situation to some extent.

What Causes Mouth Ulcers?

Although the precise reasons behind the formation of mouth ulcers are largely unknown, several factors are believed to play a role. Below is a summary of the main reasons why mouth ulcers occur:

• Nutrient Deficiency- Canker sores may result from a deficiency in some important nutrients, like zinc, folate, iron, or vitamin B-12.

• Emotional Stress- Weariness or elevated stress levels, which are frequently brought on by insufficient sleep, can also contribute to the development of mouth ulcers.

• Allergic Reactions- Sensitivity to acidic foods or an allergic reaction to certain microorganisms can cause canker sores in some people.

• Infections- Bacterial, fungal, or viral infections can occasionally cause canker sores.

• Physical Trauma- Damage from accidents, dental work, or severe brushing may result in the development of oral ulcers.

• Underlying Health ailments- Immune system problems, diabetes mellitus, and celiac disease are examples of severe ailments that may be linked to the development of mouth ulcers.

• Hormonal Changes- Women who undergo menstruation may be more susceptible to mouth ulcers as a result of hormonal swings.

• Behcet's Disease- Mouth ulcers may also be brought on by this inflammatory illness.

• Dental Factors- Rough fillings, braces, sharp teeth, forceful brushing, toothpaste that irritates the gums, ill-fitting dentures, and sharp teeth can all cause canker sores.

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Handling Mild Mouth Ulcers- Easy Tips for Quick Relief

Having discussed the meaning and factors that trigger their formation, let’s now move forward to understand how can we help prevent mouth ulcers. Canker sores usually go away on their own in a few weeks without leaving any scars. Even though they normally don't warrant concern, dealing with them might be uncomfortable. Here are a few simple suggestions to help reduce discomfort and hasten the healing process.

• Use a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush- Clean your teeth and gums gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Maintaining good oral health can also be facilitated by routine dental exams.

• Rinse with Antibiotic Mouthwash- Mouth ulcer-related edoema and inflammation can be lessened by swishing with an antibiotic mouthwash. Purexa antibiotic and antimicrobial mouthwash detoxies your mouth and reduces inflammation.

• Follow a Healthy Diet- Adhere to a diet that is well-balanced and rich in produce, whole grains, and fruits. Steer clear of acidic, spicy, and salty foods since they can aggravate mouth ulcers.

• Prefer Cold Drinks to Hot- To reduce irritability, sip cold liquids with a straw. Avoid hot drinks and acidic juices since they may make you feel more uncomfortable.

• Eat Soft Foods- Avoid crunchy snacks like chips, bread, or nuts, as they might exacerbate mouth ulcers. Instead, choose softer meal options.

• Rinse with Salt Water- To relieve mouth ulcers and encourage healing, gargle with salt water.

• Take into Account Nutrient Supplements- Taking supplements of iron, zinc, vitamin B-6, and vitamin B-12 may assist maintain general oral health.

Even though the majority of mouth ulcers heal on their own, you should definitely consult a doctor if:

• The ulcer lasts longer than two to three weeks or is big.
• You also have other symptoms, such a high fever or diarrhoea.
• It is difficult for you to swallow, eat, or drink due to severe discomfort.
• Prescription painkillers don't work to relieve pain.
• Mouth ulcers have spread to the back of the neck or to the lips.
• A severe redness or bleeding occurs along with the ulcer.
• Before old ulcers heal, new ones develop.

PUREXA antioxidant, antibacterial, and antimicrobial mouthwash helps you fight mouth ulcers with ease. Our unique combination of cutting-edge science and natural ingredients encourages a healthy oral environment, making it the ideal option for anyone looking for relief. Our blend of botanicals and strong antioxidants work in sync to help improve your oral health.

Suggested Read - Benefits of Using Aloe Vera Mouthwash

Final Thoughts

Although treating mouth ulcers might be difficult, there is hope for relief if you take the appropriate steps. Comprehending the underlying reasons and employing basic treatments such as using soft-bristles toothbrush, gargling with mouthwash an antimicrobial mouthwash, and adhering to a nutritious diet will alleviate discomfort and expedite the healing process. 

Though the majority of mouth ulcers cure on their own, it's always important to see a doctor if your symptoms worsen or if the ulcers remain. Fighting mouth ulcers is made easier with Purexa's antioxidant, antibacterial, and antimicrobial mouthwash, which also provides a way to improve overall dental health and ease suffering.

Written by Dr. Shipra Jaiswal, BDS, MDS, a Periodontist and Gums Specialist