Out of sight, out of mind. Tucked away inside your mouth, some canker sores are easy to ignore. But bite into the wrong food—usually something acidic, such as an orange or a tomato— and these small, round ulcers make their presence known in the most painful way possible. Other sores can hurt because they're in areas that brush against your teeth.
White ot yellow in color and surrounded by red halos, canker sores, also called 'Apthous Ulcers', often pop up when you're under stress or after you've eaten an irritating food (pineapple, nuts and chocolate are common culprits). Experts believe canker sores are contagious; if you've recently kissed someone who has one, you'll soon find out if the experts are right.
FOOD THERAPY
Eat more yogurt: the active acidophilus cultures in yogurt can both prevent and heal canker sores, says Julian Whitaker, M.D. If you're prone to canker sores, he recommends eating at least 4 tablespoons of yogurt daily to prevent outbreaks. To heal an outbreak, he recommends eating at least one 8-ounce container a day. Some natural remedies used with the approval of your doctor may help relieve the symptoms of canker sores. Calendula or goldenseal tea may help canker sores heal.
HERBAL THERAPY
Gargle with calendula or goldenseal tea to help canker sores heal, says Varro Tyler, Ph.D. Make the tea by pouring a cup of boiling water over 1 or 2 teaspoons of the dried herb. Let this mixture steep for 10 minutes, then strain it so there is no herb left in the liquid and use it as a mouthwash 3 to 4 times a day.
Consult Your Health Care Provider When:
- Your sore persists for more than 2 weeks.
- You get sores once a week or more, especially when they appear in bunches.