Mouth Sores: Causes, treatment and home remedies

Mouth sores can be more than just bothersome; they are often extremely painful and, in severe cases, can even interfere with eating. But what causes them? Generally, irritations in the mouth are painful yet relatively harmless. It is uncommon for them to be signs of serious conditions like cancer. However, they do cause discomfort and can significantly affect quality of life. Therefore, understanding their causes and exploring treatment options is worthwhile.

How do mouth sores develop?

Inflammation of the oral mucosa can often result from using toothbrushes that are too hard or as a secondary symptom of other diseases. A common manifestation of this is aphthae, a condition that tends to affect women more than men. These painful blisters, characterized by a yellowish-white coating and a red border, are the most prevalent oral mucosa disease. While the exact cause of aphthae is often unclear, certain risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing sores and blisters on inflamed oral tissues. Research indicates that up to 40 percent of sufferers have a family history of the condition, pointing to a possible genetic predisposition. Additionally, consuming gluten-containing foods may trigger aphthae in those with a gluten intolerance.

Stress and insufficient sleep are also cited as potential causes of oral inflammation. Certain foods, including chocolate, strawberries, tomatoes, and cheese, as well as hot beverages, can irritate the mouth. Mechanical injuries from brushing too vigorously, using hard toothbrushes, or employing improper brushing techniques can lead to sores, as can pressure points from braces or dentures. Deficiencies in iron, folic acid, and zinc may also contribute to the development of these sores. Additionally, since saliva helps moisturize and protect the mouth's lining, a reduction in salivary flow due to certain medications can result in dry mouth and associated mouth sores.

How to manage painful mouth sores?

The uncomfortable burning sensation in the mouth typically resolves on its own within a few weeks. During this period, it's important to minimize irritation to the inflamed oral mucosa. Specifically, this involves avoiding very hot or rough-textured foods, as well as acidic, salty items, and strong spices. Additionally, eliminating carbonated drinks from your diet can help if you are experiencing painful blisters.

If you experience symptoms, it's crucial to maintain meticulous oral hygiene to prevent bacteria from settling in the affected areas of your mouth. When brushing your teeth twice daily, use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid further irritation. For those prone to frequent oral mucosa inflammation, toothpaste without sodium lauryl sulfate is advisable. Additionally, regular use of dental floss to clean between your teeth, a tongue scraper to remove bacteria from the tongue's surface, and an alcohol-free antibacterial mouthwash is recommended. Rinsing your mouth with water after each meal can also be beneficial.

If your symptoms persist beyond a few days, or if you frequently experience mouth sores, it's important to consult your dentist. Your dentist can treat the condition locally, addressing aphthae or other issues directly. For more severe cases, systemic treatment involving medication may be necessary.

The best home remedies for mouth sores

Certain home remedies can help accelerate the healing process of mouth sores. Some effective natural treatments that you might already have at home include tea tree oil, aloe vera, rhubarb extract, calendula extract, chamomile extract, and baking soda. For the baking soda, mix it with water to create a paste that can help soothe inflammation-related pain.