Canker Sores and Listerine (dentists please!)?

Question

I spoke with a dentist once who said that useing listerine only made canker sores worse, beacuse alcohol would infamme it and irritate it. But I just read on another website that, that isn't the case, and it may help it heal quicker... So who was Right?

I also heard that you get them as part of a vitamen B12, and C diffency... Is that true also?

Answer 1

I Only answer what you ask for..

No. Listerine mouthwashes have been shown to be very beneficial in reducing pain in Canker Sores. In particular, studies have shown that medicated mouthwashes containing Chlorhexidine gluconate (Peridex) are especially effective in helping Canker Sores sufferers.
"Hunter L Chlorhexidine gluconate mouthwash in the management of minor aphthous ulcerationBritish Dental Journal 1987; 162:110"

The cause of canker sores is uncertain, however, associations with vitamin B1 deficiency has been linked to an increased risk of canker sores. Other nutrients that have been found to be low in people with recurrent canker sores include riboflavin (vitamin B2), pyridoxine (vitamin B6) and iron. Vitamin C is very effective at preventing or healing canker sores.

Answer 2

The exact cause of most canker sores is unknown. Stress or tissue injury is thought to be the cause of simple canker sores. Certain foods – including citrus or acidic fruits and vegetables (such as lemons, oranges, pineapples, apples, figs, tomatoes, strawberries) – can trigger a canker sore or make the problem worse. Use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, like Motrin, is another common cause. Sometimes a sharp tooth surface or dental appliance, such as braces or ill-fitting dentures, might also trigger canker sores.

Some cases of complex canker sores are caused by an underlying health condition, such as an impaired immune system; nutritional problems, such as vitamin B-12, zinc, folic acid, or iron deficiency; and gastrointestinal tract disease, such as the inflammatory bowel diseases Celiac disease and Crohn's disease.

Answer 3

I recommend Peroxyl mouth rinse used as directed, a good multivitamin and a B50 complex taken daily, and DGL tablets dissolved in the mouth 3-4 times daily as directed. If I use Listerine on any sensitive part of my mouth I have to scrape myself off the ceiling with a putty knife. (:

Answer 4

Since its affecting your mouth first, go to a Dentist. He or she can evaluate you properly and give you primary care.