If you’ve ever had canker sores, then you know how painful and frustrating they can be. These little sores seem to crop up at the worst possible times, and can make it difficult to eat or speak. While it’s hard to prevent them from happening altogether, there are several things that you can do to reduce your chances of getting them. In this blog post, we will discuss five ways that you can prevent canker sores from occurring.
1) Avoid Certain Foods
Believe it or not, there are some foods that can irritate the mouth and actually trigger canker sores. This is usually because they are acidic or contain certain enzymes that can irritate the delicate mucous membranes in your mouth.
Some of the most common foods to avoid include:
- Citrus fruits
- Coffee and tea
- Tomatoes and tomato products
- Nuts
- Chocolate
2) Be Gentle When You Brush Your Teeth
It’s always important to brush your teeth, but you need to be gentle. Many people find that hard-bristled toothbrushes and vigorous brushing can cause irritation to the delicate tissues in their mouth, making them more susceptible to canker sores.
So, use a soft-bristled brush, and be gentle when you brush. And don’t forget to floss while you’re at it!
3) Avoid Stress
Stress can be a major trigger for canker sores, as it weakens the body’s immune system and makes it easier for these sores to develop. So, it’s important to try and reduce your stress levels as much as possible.
This could mean setting aside some time each day for relaxation, or finding a hobby that helps you to unwind. Whatever it is, make sure that you’re doing something to help manage your stress.
4) Get Enough Sleep
For some people, this can be a tough one. But it’s essential to get enough quality sleep in order to keep your immune system functioning properly and canker sores at bay.
Aim for at least seven to eight hours of sleep each night. And if you’re having trouble getting to sleep, try avoiding screens (TVs, cell phones, etc.) at least an hour before bed.
5) Avoid Chewing on Hard or Sharp Objects
Chewing on hard or sharp objects like pencils, pens, and even your fingernails can cause tiny cuts in your mouth, which can be a gateway for canker sores. So, if you’re someone who tends to chew on these things, try to break the habit.
Consider replacing the hard or sharp objects with something softer and non-abrasive like sugar-free chewing gum. It may not be as satisfying, but it’ll be much better for your mouth in the long run!
The Bottom Line
Canker sores can be painful and unpleasant, but with the right precautions, you can reduce your chances of getting them. By avoiding certain foods, being gentle when you brush your teeth, reducing stress and getting enough sleep, as well as avoiding hard or sharp objects in your mouth, you can help prevent canker sores and keep your mouth healthy. Good luck!
Need to get rid of a canker sore? We can help with that! Click here to ask about our laser canker sore treatments at Hale Wellness Dental Studio today.