What is an Oral Ulcer?

The most common mouth or oral ulcer is the canker sore (apthous ulcer). These round or oval shaped ulcers form inside the mouth. They can be painful and may interfere with a person's ability to eat or talk comfortably.

You can lessen the discomfort of a canker sore and limit its duration (most typically heal in 7 - 14 days).

Stopping the pain:

A canker sore is essentially an open wound. A protective scab never forms on the wound, resulting in the painful exposure of nerve endings. There is a liquid band-aid created specifically to treat canker sores called Ora5. This product creates a protective covering over the sore, providing immediate relief.

Clinical studies have shown that the detergent in most toothpastes, Sodium Laurel Sulfate (SLS), can promote canker sores. Squigle Enamel Saver Toothpaste is free of SLS, preservatives, colors, and sweeteners.

In addition to changing to a toothpaste free of SLS, you should also monitor what you eat. Consumption of the following foods should be monitored:

• Vinegar
• Soy
• Chocolate
• French Mustard
• Pineapple
• Tomatoes
• Lemons
• Cheese
• Milk
• Nuts
• Apples
• Figs
• Shellfish
• Buckwheat, Whole Wheat, Rye, Barley, Flour