Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, are small, painful lesions that develop inside the mouth. These ulcers typically appear as white or yellowish spots surrounded by a bright red, inflamed border. Canker sores are a common oral condition, affecting approximately 20% of the U.S. population. While not contagious, they can cause significant discomfort, making eating and talking challenging. Many people turn to home remedies, such as salt water rinses, to alleviate symptoms and support healing.
The Science Behind Salt’s Action
Salt water rinses can help manage canker sores through several principles. When salt is dissolved in water, it creates a hypertonic solution that draws excess fluid out of inflamed tissues through osmosis, reducing swelling and discomfort. The drying effect also creates an environment less hospitable for bacteria. Salt possesses mild antiseptic properties, keeping the sore clean and reducing the bacterial load in the mouth, which supports a cleaner healing process. While salt water does not cure canker sores, it aids in symptom relief and promotes a more favorable environment for natural healing.
How to Use Salt for Canker Sores
Using a salt water rinse for a canker sore involves simple preparation. Dissolve about one teaspoon of common table salt in half a cup (approximately 4 ounces or 120 milliliters) of warm water, stirring until fully dissolved. Swish the solution around your mouth for 15 to 30 seconds, focusing on the sore, then spit it out. Repeat this process several times a day, typically every few hours or after meals. A temporary stinging sensation is common but usually subsides quickly.
When Salt Might Not Be Enough
While salt water rinses can offer relief and support healing for minor canker sores, they may not always be sufficient. Over-the-counter topical treatments, such as gels or pastes containing anesthetics like benzocaine or lidocaine, can provide more direct pain relief. Other available products include coating agents or oral rinses specifically designed for canker sores, which may contain ingredients like hydrogen peroxide or chlorhexidine to reduce bacteria and inflammation.
It is important to seek professional medical attention if a canker sore exhibits certain characteristics or is accompanied by other symptoms.
When to Consult a Healthcare Provider
- The sore is unusually large.
- It persists for more than two weeks.
- New sores develop before previous ones heal.
- There is extreme difficulty eating or drinking due to pain.
- Multiple sores are present.
- The canker sore is accompanied by a fever, diarrhea, headache, or a skin rash.
These symptoms could indicate a more complex underlying condition that requires proper diagnosis and treatment beyond home remedies.