How do you make mouth ulcers go away?

Mouth ulcers, also known as canker sores, are small, painful sores that can develop in the mouth. While they are usually harmless and go away on their own within a few weeks, there are some things you can do to help speed up the healing process and relieve pain.

1. Practice good oral hygiene: Brush your teeth twice a day and floss once a day to remove plaque and bacteria that can irritate the sores. Be gentle when brushing and avoid using a hard-bristled toothbrush, which can further irritate the sores.

2. Use an over-the-counter pain reliever: Pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) can help relieve the pain of mouth ulcers. Follow the dosage instructions on the package.

3. Apply a topical ointment: Over-the-counter topical ointments such as Orajel or Anbesol can help numb the pain and protect the sores from further irritation.

4. Use a saltwater rinse: Rinsing your mouth with a mixture of warm water and salt can help clean the sores and reduce pain. Mix 1/2 teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water and rinse your mouth for 30 seconds several times a day.

5. Avoid irritants: Certain foods and drinks can irritate mouth ulcers and make them more painful. Avoid spicy, acidic, or crunchy foods and drinks, and rinse your mouth with water after eating or drinking anything that could potentially irritate the sores.

6. Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids can help keep the mouth moist and prevent the sores from drying out and becoming more painful.

7. Get enough rest: Adequate rest can help your body heal faster, including mouth ulcers. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep per night.

8. See a doctor if necessary: If your mouth ulcers are severe, do not heal within a few weeks, or are accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, headache, or muscle aches, see a doctor for further evaluation and treatment.

By following these tips, you can help speed up the healing process of mouth ulcers and relieve pain.