Having mouth blisters or canker sores is always unpleasant. You can’t eat or talk, and most importantly, the pain it brings along is unbearable. There are various tricks to get rid of it. Have you ever tried alum for canker sores?
This blog has briefly described what canker sores are, why you get them, and above all, using alum for canker sores treatment.
What are canker sores?
Canker sores are shallow ulcers or sores that emerge on the mouth lining. They can grow on the cheeks, lips, gums, or tongue.
Canker sores are also referred to as aphthous ulcers, which literally means on fire since they burn a lot. They start small, having a yellow to white appearance surrounded by red tissues, one millimeter in size but can grow up to half or one inch in diameter.
Treatment by alum for canker sore
Alum is a common name given to the chemical aluminum potassium sulfate. Alum powder is used to draw out the liquid filled in the canker sore. Once the liquid dries up, it becomes easier for the crust to heal.
The application method is simple, take a small amount of alum powder and press it lightly against the canker sore. Let it stay for about a minute. Make sure not to take it in since it is hazardous for your health. After a minute, rinse your mouth thoroughly and spit the alum out.
Alum causes a sharp sting when applied, and many may not want to use it. For those people, alum powder is mixed with water to make a solution which is used as a mouthwash—swish, swirl, and spit.
These methods provide rapid relief.
Why does alum work?
Alum works perfectly for canker sores because it acts as an astringent, draws the liquid out, and contracts the tissues to seal the wound faster. Alum is also an anti-inflammatory agent, reduces swelling, pain, and tenderness.
Why do we get a canker sore?
Well, we know for sure that it is not contagious; but the exact reason for its emergence is not known completely. Nonetheless, we have various theories
- genetic factor
- hormonal changes, especially in women
- bruise on the lip due to trauma
- accidental lip biting
- abrasion due to braces inside the mouth
- stress
- lack of vitamins and minerals
Other remedies available
Saltwater rinse
This classic method stands next to the alum for canker sores’ treatment. Take one part salt and dissolve in half part water. Swish the solution for a minute and spit. It will sting a little, but the result will be worth it.
Baking soda solution
Baking soda is alkaline, re-establishes the pH, and decreases inflammation for healing the sore. Make a solution with one part baking soda in half part water. Swish for a minute, then spit.
Yogurt
A weak immune system is often connected to a canker sore. H. pylori is a bacteria often associated with inflammatory bowel. Yogurt has probiotics that react and kills H. pylori thereby, reducing inflammation.
Honey
Honey is a potent anti-inflammatory agent, and also works to kill bacteria. It effectively reduces swelling, redness, and pain of the sores.
Milk of Magnesia
A neutralizing compound containing magnesium hydroxide changes the pH, making it difficult for the sore to survive.
Take a small amount of milk of magnesia, place it on the canker sore for a minute, then rinse.
If your canker sores are recurrent, then it would be best to get a professional’s advice. Call Porter Smiles Dental at 281 519 7200 for information, an appointment, or more.