Are you one of millions of people haunted by canker sores? Sure, some people are more prone to get them than others, but what are you doing to cause them? And what can you do to stop them? Having recently battled one myself recently, here is what I learned:
1. Change your toothpaste. Now. Take a look at that half-flattened tube of Colgate, and look for Sodium Lauryl Sulfate on the ingredient list. This chemical is a trigger for many people who get canker sores. Ditch that paste right now and find an alternative that doesn't use the stuff.
2. Get your mouth clean, and keep it that way! That means brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash. Every day. Multiple times. Keep it like a laboratory in there. Sores invite infections, so don't give bacteria the chance. Clean it up.
3. Use hydrogen peroxide solutions, or salt-water. Swish around or apply directly to the sore. This won't be fun, but nobody said life was going to be fun, kid. You can also try applying salt directly to the sore, which will dehydrate it and help it heal faster.
4. For dealing with the pain, stop drenching everything in hot sauce (this one is for me, mostly), and avoid highly-acidic food and drinks like oranges or fruit juices. Try it once and you will trust me. Take aspirin to help dull the pain, and try using Orajel. That stuff works wonders.
Follow these tips and your mouth will be feeling better in no time.
