01What are Canker Sores?

  • Canker sores are shallow, round or oval-shaped ulcers that can develop on the tongue, gums, or inside of the lips and cheeks.
  • They are usually white or yellow with a red border, and can be quite painful.
  • Canker sores are not contagious and are not caused by viruses or bacteria.
  • The exact cause of canker sores is unknown, but factors such as stress, injury to the mouth, certain foods, and hormonal changes can contribute to their development.

02Home Remedies for Treating Canker Sores on the Tongue

  • Rinse with saltwater: Mix 1/2 teaspoon of salt with 1 cup of warm water. Gargle this solution in your mouth for 30 seconds, then spit it out. Repeat this several times a day to help reduce inflammation and promote healing.
  • Apply a baking soda paste: Mix baking soda with a small amount of water to make a paste. Apply the paste directly onto the canker sore using a cotton swab. Leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing your mouth. Baking soda can help neutralize acidity and reduce pain.
  • Use a topical numbing agent: Over-the-counter numbing gels or ointments containing benzocaine can provide temporary relief from pain and discomfort. Follow the instructions on the packaging for proper usage.
  • Apply aloe vera gel: Aloe vera has soothing properties that can help reduce pain and inflammation. Apply a small amount of aloe vera gel directly onto the canker sore a few times a day.
  • Avoid irritants: Spicy or acidic foods, as well as rough or sharp-edged foods, can aggravate a canker sore. Avoid these foods until the sore has healed.
  • Practice good oral hygiene: Brush your teeth gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush and use a mild, alcohol-free mouthwash. This can help prevent infection and promote healing.
  • Manage stress: Stress can weaken the immune system and trigger canker sores. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as practicing yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises.

03When to See a Doctor

  • Most canker sores heal on their own within 7 to 10 days. However, you should consult a doctor if:
  • - The sore lasts longer than 2 weeks
  • - The pain is severe and not relieved by over-the-counter medications
  • - You have recurrent canker sores
  • - The sore is unusually large or keeps growing
  • - You experience difficulty eating or drinking
  • - You have other symptoms such as fever, rash, or fatigue

Conclusion

Treating a canker sore on the tongue involves reducing inflammation, promoting healing, and managing pain. Home remedies such as saltwater rinses, baking soda pastes, and topical numbing agents can provide relief. It's important to practice good oral hygiene and avoid irritants that can aggravate the sore. If the sore persists or is accompanied by severe pain or other concerning symptoms, it's advisable to seek medical attention.

MethodsDetails
Rinse with saltwaterMix 1/2 teaspoon of salt with 1 cup of warm water and gargle to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
Apply a baking soda pasteMake a paste with baking soda and water, apply directly to the canker sore to alleviate pain.
Use a topical numbing agentOver-the-counter gels or ointments containing benzocaine can provide temporary relief from pain.
Apply aloe vera gelThe soothing properties of aloe vera can help reduce pain and inflammation.
Avoid irritantsSpicy or acidic foods can aggravate a canker sore, so it's best to avoid them until the sore has healed.
Practice good oral hygieneBrush teeth gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush and use an alcohol-free mouthwash to prevent infection and promote healing.
Manage stressStress can trigger canker sores, so finding healthy ways to manage stress is important.
canker sores
aphthous ulcers
treatment
tongue health