A canker sore (aphthous ulcer) is a small, painful lesion that develops inside the mouth on soft tissues like the tongue, cheeks, or gums. These ulcers are not contagious and are distinct from cold sores, which appear on the outside of the lips. Canker sores are generally harmless and self-healing, but they cause significant discomfort, especially when eating or speaking. Many people seek simple home remedies, and baking soda is a common suggestion for treating these irritating mouth sores.
Why Baking Soda Helps Canker Sores
Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) provides relief due to its alkaline nature. The oral environment surrounding an ulcer often becomes acidic, which increases irritation and pain. Sodium bicarbonate neutralizes this acidic environment, helping to restore a balanced pH level in the mouth.
This pH balancing action reduces irritation on the sore. Creating an alkaline environment also makes the area less hospitable for certain types of bacteria, which may aid healing. Baking soda can also form a temporary coating over the sore, offering a physical barrier that protects the irritated tissue from friction or acidic foods.
Preparing and Using Baking Soda Treatments
There are two main methods for using baking soda to treat a canker sore. The first method involves creating a simple mouth rinse. To make a rinse, dissolve one teaspoon of baking soda in a half-cup of warm water.
Swish this solution around the mouth for 15 to 30 seconds, ensuring contact with the sore, and then spit it out. This rinse can be repeated every few hours for pain relief. The second method is a direct application paste, which offers more concentrated relief.
Mix a small amount of baking soda with just enough water to form a thick paste. Dab this paste directly onto the canker sore using a clean cotton swab or fingertip. The paste should sit on the sore for several minutes before rinsing the mouth clean.
Common Causes of Canker Sores
While the exact cause of canker sores is not fully understood, numerous factors are known to trigger their formation. Minor physical trauma is a common trigger, such as accidentally biting the cheek, aggressive toothbrushing, or irritation from dental appliances.
Nutritional deficiencies can also play a role, specifically low levels of Vitamin B12, folate, iron, and zinc. Stress is frequently associated with outbreaks, with stressful life events potentially tripling the odds of occurrence.
Certain foods, including highly acidic or spicy items, can irritate the sensitive oral lining and contribute to the development of a sore. Additionally, some individuals find that toothpastes containing the foaming agent sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) may trigger or prolong healing time. Identifying and avoiding personal triggers is an effective strategy for reducing recurrence.
When Home Remedies Are Not Enough
Although most canker sores are minor and heal on their own within one to two weeks, specific signs warrant professional medical attention. Consult a doctor or dentist if a sore is unusually large or persists for two weeks or longer without showing signs of healing.
Frequent recurrence, where new sores appear before old ones have healed, also suggests the need for medical evaluation. Extreme pain that makes eating or drinking difficult, or a high fever alongside the sore, should prompt a visit to a healthcare provider. These symptoms may indicate a more serious underlying condition requiring specific diagnosis and treatment.