How to Avoid Getting Canker Sores

Canker sores are small ulcers that can appear on the inside of your mouth, lips, cheeks, and tongue. They can be quite painful and can make it difficult to eat or speak. While there is no surefire way to completely prevent canker sores, there are some things you can do to reduce your risk of getting them:

1. Practice good oral hygiene: Brush your teeth twice a day, floss regularly, and use mouthwash to keep your mouth clean and free of bacteria.

2. Avoid certain foods: Spicy or acidic foods can irritate the inside of your mouth and trigger canker sores. Avoid these types of foods if you're prone to getting canker sores.

3. Manage your stress levels: Stress is a common trigger for canker sores. Practice stress-relieving techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises.

4. Don't chew on hard or sharp foods: Biting into hard foods like popcorn kernels or chewing on sharp foods like ice can damage the inside of your mouth and increase your risk of getting canker sores.

5. Get enough vitamins and minerals: A deficiency in vitamins B12, folic acid, and iron can increase your risk of getting canker sores. Make sure to get enough of these vitamins and minerals through your diet or supplements.

6. Don't use tobacco products: Smoking or using other tobacco products can irritate the inside of your mouth and increase your risk of getting canker sores.

If you do get a canker sore, try using over-the-counter treatments like oral gels or mouth rinses to help ease the pain and promote healing. If your canker sores are persistent or severe, talk to your doctor or dentist to rule out any underlying health conditions.