Mouth ulcers after tooth extraction: 7 Powerful home remedies to treat them

Many people find that they start to develop mouth ulcers after tooth extraction or a few days after dental treatment. Mouth ulcers are also known as canker sores and can be very frustrating and painful. Let’s explore why you might get mouth ulcers after tooth extraction: 7 powerful home remedies to treat them.

Why do you have mouth ulcers after tooth extraction?

The reason why you get sore throats and mouth sores after dental work is because there is often trauma on your gums that can happen during these procedures. This problem can happen without you even knowing it especially if your mouth was numbed during the process.

With all the different tools that dentists use during these procedures, sometimes this is unavoidable. Once the skin is scratched, it can lead to a wound that causes an ulcer which becomes worse if it gets infected by bacteria.

If the sore that is causing you pain is on or at the extraction site, it may be a dry socket and not an ulcer. Dry sockets are caused by improper healing of the extraction site. In general, after the extraction, a blood clot should form at the site. If there is no confusion, this lump should be more severe, like a scab on your finger, for example. However, if it hurts, the clot may disappear. When this happens, the pain is often severe because the bone beneath the site is exposed and unprotected. If you look closely at the site, you should be able to see bone in the wound. In this case, you should see your dentist as soon as possible so that he can cover the wound with a dressing containing zinc oxide eugenol.

How long do mouth ulcers last after tooth extraction?

There are a variety of factors that determine the duration of canker sores or mouth ulcers, but in general, they last between 1-2 weeks. Some of these factors are:

• Diet. It is important to avoid acidic and spicy foods when ulcers start to develop, because these types of foods can make the problem worse. Foods like tomatoes, citrus fruits, chocolate, cheese, and drinks like soda and coffee should also be avoided

• Vitamin deficiency. It is important to note that vitamin deficiencies can both cause and prolong canker sores. Having insufficient nutrients can leave your body unable to heal itself or fight bacteria as quickly. A number of studies have found that vitamin B12 and folate play a key role in preventing ulcers. Lysine is another essential vitamin.

• Treatment. There are several treatment options that can be very effective in treating stomach ulcers. Treatment can significantly reduce the duration of your mouth ulcers or canker sores.

7 Trusted Home Remedies for Mouth Ulcers

Salt water

Salt water raises the pH of your mouth and makes it more alkaline. This makes it difficult for bacteria to survive, since they thrive in a slightly acidic environment. This helps prevent bacteria from growing, giving your mouth a better chance to heal.

How to use; add a teaspoon of salt to a cup of warm water. Use this as a mouth gargle.

Alum powder

Alum powder plays an important role in preventing ulcers. It removes the pain and dryness and reduces the swelling. This makes the canker sores heal faster.

How to use; apply it directly to the wound (if you are brave) or mix it with water and make a paste to apply to the wound. After a few minutes, rinse your mouth with warm water and spew it out. Make sure not to swallow it.

Liquorice

In addition to its anti-allergic properties, liquorice herb also has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. Liquorice’s anti-inflammatory properties are especially beneficial for ulcer pain and swelling.

How to use; add 1 teaspoon of liquorice powder to a glass of warm water. Stir the mixture properly and use as a mouth rinse.

Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen Peroxide is another good way for killing bacteria in your mouth that cause ulcers.

How to use; mix half peroxide with half water and use a cotton ball or swab to apply the mixture to the wound. There are also peroxide mouthwashes.

Baking soda

Baking soda is another good home remedy to help heal mouth ulcers. This is because it contains a saline solution as well as sodium bicarbonate, both of which help heal wounds faster by reducing bacteria and alkalinity in the mouth.

How to use; take a generous amount of baking soda and make a paste by adding a little water to it until it thickens. Apply the paste on the sores and let it work its magic.

Aloe vera gel

One of the most effective home remedies for mouth ulcers is aloe vera because it has anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties. Additionally, it boosts the healing process of mouth ulcers by reducing inflammation and pain

How to use; use aloe vera gel directly on ulcers

Basil leaves

Basil leaves are an excellent home remedy for mouth ulcers. Apart from having strong anti-bacterial and anti-microbial properties, basil leaves have natural anti-inflammatory properties.

How to use; crush some fresh basil leaves to make a paste. The paste should be applied to mouth ulcers.

What should you do if you have mouth ulcers after tooth extraction?

Although canker sores heal on their own, it is important to recognize them early so that you can start treating them quickly. There are many home remedies and products which can promote healing.

You can help reduce the risk of developing canker sores by gargling with salt water or hydrogen peroxide in the days following the procedure. By doing so, you will be able to reduce the bacterial load.

The sores can be irritating and painful when they are near the extraction site, but they usually heal within a few days. However, if your sore has not healed within 7-10 days, then, make an appointment to see your dentist immediately.

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