Should anyone really take self-care steps that might relieve canker sores?”
Self-care steps might relieve canker sores By Mayo Clinic Practicing good oral hygiene may reduce canker sores, too. It would be a good idea to see your dentist for a thorough dental exam. In some cases, mouth sores may be a sign of a dental infection or another mouth abnormality. In addition, talk to your doctor about testing your body’s level of vitamin B12. Some research has shown that people who are vitamin B12 deficient are more likely to have more frequent and larger numbers of canker sores. If your B12 level is low, taking a vitamin supplement or increasing B12 in your diet by eating more fish, shellfish, meat and dairy products may reduce canker sores. Studies have shown that garlic and zinc can also be helpful for people who have frequent canker sores. Both are available in over-the- counter tablets. Ask your doctor if these may be right for you. Although canker sores are bothersome, the good news is that they aren’t serious, and rarely are they a sign of an underlying medical