Mouth Sores: What They Are and How to Deal With Them

Got a painful spot inside your mouth that makes eating or talking uncomfortable? That’s a mouth sore, also called an oral ulcer or canker sore. Most of the time they’re harmless and disappear in a week or two, but the pain can be annoying. Below you’ll find the most common reasons they show up, simple things you can do right now to feel better, and signs that mean it’s time to call a doctor.

Common Triggers

Even tiny changes in your daily routine can spark a sore. Stress is a big one – when you’re busy or anxious, your immune system can get a little shaky and let ulcers form. Eating very acidic foods like citrus, tomatoes, or spicy sauces can irritate the soft tissue, especially if you’ve brushed too hard or have a sharp tooth edge. Mouth injuries from accidental bites, braces, or rough dental work also create a perfect spot for a sore to start. Lastly, deficiencies in B‑vitamins, iron, or folic acid can make the lining of your mouth more fragile.

Fast Relief Tips

When a sore pops up, the first goal is to keep the area clean and reduce irritation. Rinse your mouth gently with warm salt water (½ teaspoon of salt in a cup of water) three times a day – it helps kill bacteria and eases pain. Over‑the‑counter gels that contain benzocaine or hydrogen peroxide create a protective coating and numb the spot for a short time. If you can tolerate it, chew on a small piece of ice or sip cool water to soothe the burn. Avoid abrasive foods, alcohol‑based mouthwashes, and smoking until the sore heals.

For a more natural approach, dab a little honey on the ulcer a few times a day; honey’s antimicrobial properties can speed up healing. Coconut oil applied in the same way works similarly. If you suspect a vitamin shortfall, a daily multivitamin or a quick boost of B‑complex can help prevent new sores from forming.

Most mouth sores fade on their own, but keep an eye on a few warning signs. If the sore lasts more than three weeks, keeps getting bigger, or is accompanied by a fever, swollen lymph nodes, or difficulty swallowing, you should see a dentist or doctor. Persistent sores can sometimes mean an underlying infection, autoimmune condition, or, rarely, oral cancer.

In short, mouth sores are usually a short‑term nuisance, and you have plenty of low‑cost ways to speed up recovery. Stick to gentle oral hygiene, watch your diet, manage stress, and use over‑the‑counter or natural soothing agents. If they linger or get worse, don’t wait – get professional advice early to rule out anything more serious.