MOUTHWASH FOR ULCERS

  • What are Mouth Ulcers?
  • What Causes Mouth Ulcers?
  • Oral Hygiene for Mouth Ulcers
  • What’s the Best Mouthwash Options for Ulcers

Mouth ulcers, also known as canker sores are often small in size, and can cause discomfort. If you have mouth ulcers, visit your dental professional for recommendations on whether a mouthwash for ulcers may be helpful for you.

What are Mouth Ulcers?

Mouth ulcers, or canker sores, are small lesions that can develop in your mouth, often on the gum line. These lesions can be uncomfortable and can even affect talking, eating, or drinking.

Though most mouth ulcers tend to go on their own with a couple weeks, if you experience a canker sore that simply won’t go away or becomes very painful, see your medical or dental professional right away for proper diagnosis and treatment.

What Causes Mouth Ulcers?

Though not contagious, mouth ulcers can be triggered by several reasons, these include:

  • Sensitivity to certain acidic foods 
  • Lack of vitamins such as iron or B-12 
  • Braces or other orthodontic mouth gear 
  • Minor oral injuries and brushing too hard 
  • Hormonal changes 
  • Bacterial or viral infections

Some ulcers occur as a result of a serious underlying medical condition, see your medical professional right away for diagnosis and treatment.

Oral Hygiene for Mouth Ulcers

Since mouth ulcers may cause some oral discomfort, it’s best to pay extra attention when taking care of your mouth: 

  • Use an electric toothbrush with a Sensitive Mode and Pressure Sensor to protect your gums
  • Pair your electric toothbrush with a soft-bristled replacement head for a gentler clean 
  • Use a toothpaste containing fluoride to better assist in reducing mouth or plaque bacteria 
  • Rinse with a non-alcoholic mouthwash to stay gentle on your mouth and to help keep your mouth clean Visit your dental professional twice a year for checkups and cleanings

What’s the Best Mouthwash Options for Ulcers

Ask your dental professional about which mouthwash is best for you.

An alcohol-free mouthwash option may be best for ulcers to help avoid additional irritation. A fluoride mouthwash can help protect your mouth when paired with twice daily brushing. A  gum care mouthwash can help clean along the gum line to better ensure your mouth stays fresh.

Sources:

https://www.ada.org/en/member-center/oral-health-topics/mouthrinse#:~:text=Antimicrobials%20in%20mouthwash%20formulations%20include,ketone%2C%20terpene%2C%20and%20ionone.
https://www.dentalcareplus.com/media/50441/health-connection-mouthwash.pdf
https://www.healthline.com/health/mouth-ulcers#prevention