Dr. Trager's Tips For Healthy Mouths

WARM SALT WATER SOAKS

Great for swelling, soreness, and pain inside the mouth. It's important to note that salt, in too heavy a concentration, can act as an irritant.

Take 1/2 tsp. of sea salt, dissolve in an 8 oz. glass of warm water Take a mouthful and hold it on the affected side until the warmth of the salt water is gone. Repeat with entine 8 oz. of water.

Do this every hour if the symptoms are acute, or four times a day until the symptoms have been alleviated.

CUTS AND SCRAPES INSIDE THE MOUTH AND ON THE LIPS

Vitamin E, covered with orates, works very effectively. If vitamin E liquid is not available, take a 200 unit vitamin E capsule, make a small opening in one end and squeeze the necessary amount on the abrasion.

I recommend that you stay away from foods high in acid, salt and pepper, and foods that are crispy.

CANKER SORES OR MOUTH ULCERS

Canker sores or mouth ulcers are often painful and interfere with normal eating. Avoid using harsh chemicals like camphophenique, as the phenol does not limit itself to the surface tissue and can affect deeper tissue cells.

Use a gentle oral bandage, like plain orates, to keep the ulcer covered. This should allow gentle healing in several days. If the sore or ulcer has not disappeared in 10-15 days, a visit to your dentist is recommended.

COLD SORES OR BLISTERS ON THE LIPS OR CORNERS OF THE MOUTH

At the first sign of a cold sore, usually a slight swelling, redness, or soreness, begin taking a 500 mg L-Lysine tablet or capsule two to three times a day. This natural amino acid works wonders in the prevention and treatment of cold sores and blisters.