5 Healthy Food Habits to Help Prevent a Canker Sore
A canker sore is a small ulcer that develops inside the mouth on soft tissues such as the base of the gums, inside the cheeks, or inside the lips. They are not cold sores and they are not contagious, but they can be painful and uncomfortable for several days. Depending on their location, they can make eating and speaking difficult. Here are some helpful tips to reduce your risk of getting canker sores.
What Causes Canker Sores?
There is no single known cause of canker sores. They do tend to run in families, so children are more likely to get them if their parents have had them. While the exact cause is not fully understood, canker sores are more likely to appear if you:
- Feel stressed
- Feel exhausted or run down
- Injure your mouth
- Wear traditional braces
- Have allergies
- Eat or drink highly acidic foods and beverages
- Have a vitamin deficiency
- Have an immune condition such as celiac disease, IBD, HIV, or lupus
Can Eating Healthier Help Prevent Canker Sores?
If you are prone to getting canker sores, a few dietary and lifestyle changes may help reduce how often they occur. Dr. Petinge recommends the following strategies:
- Try limiting highly acidic foods and drinks. If you notice fewer sores, you can slowly reintroduce them.
- If you are feeling sick or run down, get plenty of rest and talk to your primary care provider about possible underlying causes.
- Reduce stress through activities such as exercise, yoga, deep breathing, or meditation.
- Dentures and metal braces can rub against the inside of the mouth and cause irritation. Dental wax can help protect these areas, and a dental visit can determine whether adjustments are needed.
- Maintain good oral hygiene. Plaque, decay, and bacteria can make it harder for your body to heal and defend itself.
Five Healthy Food Habits to Help Prevent Canker Sores
If your canker sores are related to a vitamin deficiency, these dietary habits may help reduce how often they return:
- Make sure you get enough vitamin B12, iron, and folate in your diet.
- Talk to your primary care provider or a dietitian about whether a supplement may be helpful.
- Eat plenty of nutrient-rich fresh foods such as parsley, kale, carrots, and spinach.
- Eat yogurt, which contains natural probiotics that can support your immune system.
- Increase your protein intake to support overall healing and immune health.
What to Do If You Get a Canker Sore
Sometimes, even with good habits, a canker sore can still develop. If that happens, these tips may help reduce discomfort and speed healing:
- Apply a topical pain-relief gel or ointment from your local pharmacy.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen if needed.
- Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid further irritation.
Ask Dr. Petinge About Canker Sores
If you have ongoing questions about canker sores or your oral health, contact Petinge Dental. We are happy to answer your questions and help you stay comfortable and healthy. If it is time for your routine visit, call today to schedule your appointment.