Aloe Vera Plants aren’t just for Decoration! Did You Know Aloe Vera Can Help With Mouth Sores Too?
Mouth sores can be the most irritating and unwanted visitors in your mouth. But did you know that mouth sores (or mouth ulcers), canker sores, herpes simplex viruses, or generally irritated and itchy areas in and around your mouth can be relieved with Aloe Vera?
Aloe Vera is a common plant around the world and has been used as part of naturopathic and medicinal practices for years. It is known for its soothing, anti-inflammatory properties and moisturizing effects on the body. Recently, Dental Researchers have taken interest in the use of Aloe Vera products, such as Aloe Vera juice and topical products like Aloe Vera gel, for the treatment of mouth ulcers.
How Do Mouth Ulcers Form?
Mouth ulcers can form for many reasons, some of which may do with your oral health. A mouth ulcer can be caused from irritation from dental appliances (like rogue braces wires) but can also be a more serious indication of your overall health.
Mouth ulcers can be a sign of vitamin deficiencies (B12), iron deficiencies, Herpes Simplex Virus, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), or in some cases, Major Apthous Ulceration (MJAU). Major Apthous Ulceration (MJAU) can cause problems the gastrointestinal tract, which prevents the mouth, throat and nasal passages from performing well.
It is important to talk to a dental professional about your ulcers if they are reoccurring. If you are struggling to brush and maintain your oral health because of mouth sores, you need to speak to your dentist about ways you can control them.
Does Aloe Vera Help Control Frequency of Mouth Sores?
Aloe Vera doesn’t help to control mouth ulcers, but it will soothe them and help them to heal once they appear. It also boosts your system, which means that mouth sores may be less frequent.
There are a few options for Aloe Vera products that topical or orally consumed and are safe to use for oral health according to Health Canada:
- Fresh Aloe Vera Juice
- Freeze Dried Aloe Vera
- Aloe Vera Powder
- Aloe Vera Powered Juice
- Aloe Vera Liquid Extract
- Aloe Vera Dry Preparations (7.5-200mL per day)
- Aloe Vera Gel (7.5-200g fresh gel per day)
3 Aloe Vera Products for Oral Health
Using Aloe Vera for your oral health is beneficial, but you may not be sure which methods to choose from and in what quantity. Here are three products from the plant that are readily available in most health food stores that can be prepared and measured simply:
- Aloe Vera gels are the solution that most people are drawn to when it comes to oral health help. The consistency of a gel feels soothing and is not time consuming to put on. The gels help to soothe and heal mouth sores, while providing the body with antioxidant support. Make sure you are not consuming the gel (it is only meant for topical use on the spot!).
- Aloe Vera juice is effective in restoring the gastrointestinal tract, but garners mixed reviews on the taste and density. Depending on the formulation of your chosen Aloe Vera juice, you may either find it is bitter or sweet. It all depends on the formula and your taste buds! Some juices have additional natural flavouring from fruits that can improve the taste. Try out Aloe Vera juice if you’re looking for a refreshing way to help your mouth sores.
- Aloe Vera capsules are another alternative if you want an overall health boost for your body and your mouth. Typically the capsules are given to help treat constipation and soothe the intestinal tracts, but they can also help with oral inflammation and mouth sores.
What Can Aloe Vera Help Besides Mouth Sores?
Mouth ulcers aren’t the only things that can be helped with a bit of Aloe Vera. Dentists have been testing the dental benefits and uses of Aloe Vera in gel form, mouthwash and juice. These products can be used to treat more oral conditions including gingivitis, periodontitis, and radiation induced oral muscositis, because it is an anti-inflammatory and helps control harmful bacteria.
Are There Additional Health Benefits to Using Aloe Vera?
Beyond the soothing properties of Aloe Vera, there are additional health benefits. Aloe Vera in any concentration contains antioxidants, including Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Vitamin B12, and foilc acid. There are also enzymes that help to break down any sugars, fats, and minerals that can be metabolized and used for creating energy.
If you need guidance when it comes to dealing with mouth sores or need more information on Aloe Vera for Oral Hygiene, please come in to Stonegate Dental and talk to one of our dental professionals. No matter how large or small your concern is we would like to address it and provide you with the best oral health possible.
