Health Tip: Calm a Canker Sore

(HealthDay News) -- Canker sores are ulcers that form inside the mouth that can make eating and drinking painful.

The American Dental Association suggests how to help heal a canker sore:

  • Apply an over-the-counter topical anesthetic to numb the sore.

  • Use an antimicrobial mouth rinse.

  • Avoid foods that may irritate the sore, especially anything spicy, hot or acidic.

  • See your dentist if the sore doesn't heal without treatment after two weeks.

  • Use an antibiotic and/or bandage as recommended by your dentist, to help reduce the risk of infection.

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