Best Over The Counter Medicine For Mouth Ulcers
Mouth ulcers, also known as canker sores, are painful sores that appear inside the mouth, on the cheeks, tongue, and lips. They can be caused by a variety of factors, such as stress, injury, viral infections, and certain medical conditions. While they typically heal on their own within a week or two, they can be very uncomfortable and interfere with eating, drinking, and speaking. Fortunately, there are several over-the-counter (OTC) medicines that can help relieve the pain and speed up the healing process. Here are some of the best OTC medicines for mouth ulcers:
1. Orajel
Orajel is a popular brand of oral pain reliever that contains benzocaine, a local anesthetic that numbs the affected area. It comes in various forms, such as gels, liquids, and patches, and can provide relief from the pain and discomfort of mouth ulcers for up to six hours. It's important to follow the instructions carefully and not to exceed the recommended dosage, as excessive use of benzocaine can lead to side effects such as dizziness, nausea, and breathing difficulties.
2. Anbesol
Similar to Orajel, Anbesol is another OTC medicine that contains benzocaine and is used to relieve pain caused by mouth ulcers, cold sores, and other oral irritations. It's available in gel, liquid, and cream forms, and can provide relief for up to two hours. It's important to avoid using Anbesol if you have a history of allergic reactions to benzocaine or other local anesthetics, as it can cause severe allergic reactions in some people.
3. Zilactin-B
Zilactin-B is a unique OTC medicine that forms a protective barrier over the affected area, sealing in the medication and protecting the ulcer from further irritation. It contains benzocaine as well as a polymer that forms a film over the ulcer, providing long-lasting relief from pain and discomfort. It's important to avoid eating or drinking for at least 30 minutes after applying Zilactin-B to allow the film to form properly.
4. Chloraseptic
Chloraseptic is an OTC medicine that contains phenol, a topical antiseptic that can help prevent infection and speed up the healing process of mouth ulcers. It's available in spray and lozenge forms, and can provide relief from pain and discomfort for up to two hours. It's important to avoid swallowing the spray or lozenge, as phenol can be toxic if ingested in large amounts.
5. Colgate Orabase
Colgate Orabase is an OTC medicine that contains benzocaine as well as a protective paste that adheres to the ulcer and provides long-lasting relief from pain and discomfort. It's available in gel and paste forms, and can be applied directly to the ulcer using a cotton swab or clean finger. It's important to avoid eating or drinking for at least 30 minutes after applying Colgate Orabase to allow the paste to adhere properly.
Conclusion
If you're suffering from mouth ulcers, there are several over-the-counter medicines that can help relieve the pain and speed up the healing process. However, it's important to follow the instructions carefully and not to exceed the recommended dosage, as excessive use of these medicines can lead to side effects. If your ulcers persist for more than two weeks or are accompanied by other symptoms such as fever or difficulty swallowing, it's important to seek medical attention.