Wondering how to get rid of canker sores? That probably means you either have just experienced your first canker sore or you are simply dog tired of dealing with canker sores over and over again. Regardless of which reason it is, however, you should understand that the medical profession has not determined an exact cause for these often painful eruptions.

What Causes Canker Sores?
While no one is completely sure what causes canker sores, those who have repeat occurrences of canker sores usually have an idea of what might have set the cycle into motion yet again. And because women seem to get canker sores more readily than men, it is assumed that it may have something to do with hormones, the time of the month and stress.

Stress is one factor that most canker sore sufferers would point toward. Another culprit may be certain foods, such as citrus foods. Pineapple, kiwi ans strawberries can bring on a canker sore eruption. Foods that have hard edges are also on the hit list, as they can actually puncture the skin and give the ulcer a starting point. Poor nutrition may also contribute to this issue.

Other items that raise a red flag are toothpastes that have sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) in the ingredients. This is a foaming agent and is used in a variety of major toothpastes.

How Do You Get Rid of Canker Sores?
Getting rid of canker sores is not a difficult procedure, but it may take a day or two before the canker sores begin to subside. Canker sores can grow to the size of a nickel and presumably larger, if left untreated, so don’t delay. Also, not all mouth sores are in fact canker sores. If your canker sore(s) are large, recurring, keep you from eating, or will not go away, it’s time to consult your physician.

• Gargling with salt water helps immensely. In fact, if you can stand it, dip your wet finger into a teaspoon of salt and then press your fingertip into the canker sore. It will hurt like the dickens, but it appears to basically destroy the infection after just one application.
• Try mixing a teaspoon of Milk of Magnesia and Benadryl Allergy liquid together and then swishing it over the canker sore for about a minute. Repeat this process several times a day. Spit the medication out after you swish. Do not repeat more than four times in a 24-hour period.
• Avoid anything that irritates your mouth and also avoid foods that you are allergic to or that leave a stinging sensation in your mouth after eating. Some such foods might include certain fruits, potato chips or overly salty or spiced foods.
• Vitamin B12 deficiency can also cause canker sores, as can too much Vitamin C.