Aphthous ulcer medical therapy
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Overview
Aphthous ulcers normally heal without treatment within 1 to 2 weeks. Good oral hygiene should be maintained, and spicy, acidic, and salty foods and drinks are best avoided, as they may irritate existing ulcers. Strong mouthwash such as Listerine has also been known to cause irritation because of its strong ingredients, and many oral care professionals discourage the use of it while having a mouth ulcer.
Pain Relief and Healing
Any mouth sore that does not heal after two weeks should be looked at by a dentist or an oral surgeon as it could be a sign of a more serious condition such as oral cancer.
Pain can be mitigated by an OTC pain-relieving gel, such as Anbesol, Bonjela, Campho-Phenique, Orabase B, Zilactin, or Kanka, available in drugstores.
Triamcinolone Acetonide dental paste can be very effective; the steroid reduces the immune system's response in the area of the ulcer. It is available by prescription only for bigger pack size - 10g or over the counter for smaller pack size - 5g in pharmacies in the UK.
A recent study of the Oral-B product Amosan suggests that it may reduce anaerobic bacteria, such as those found in oral wounds. The study did not, however, demonstrate the efficacy of the product in treating mouth ulcers.[1]
Tincture of benzoin can be used as a protectant for recurring aphthous ulcers, by forming a layer over the sore and protecting it from further irritation.
Home Remedies
Some home remedies that have been suggested include:
- Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza) in the form of over-the-counter medicated disk patches may help heal or reduce the growth of canker sores if applied early on.[2]
- Sticking a small aspirin on the sore and applying pressure
- Apply three pinches of table salt on the sore. (Note this can be painful)
Antacid techniques suggested include the following:
- Gargling warm water and salt sometimes provides temporary relief from pain, and the salt may promote healing.
- Swab the ulcers with Milk of Magnesia.[3]
- Make a paste of baking soda and water; apply directly to the ulcers.[4]
- Make a mix of half milk of magnesia and half Benadryl, and hold in the mouth for up to 3 minutes.[2]
References
- ↑ Wennström J, Lindhe J (1979). "Effect of hydrogen peroxide on developing plaque and gingivitis in man". J Clin Periodontol. 6 (2): 115–30. PMID 379049.
- ↑ Canker Sores: What Are They and What Can You Do About Them? (American Academy of Family Physicians)
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