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Preventing Ulcers

Posted: Fri Dec 16, 2005 10:17 am
by TinnGrinn
Ulcers have been a real problem for me lately and they never have been before so I am guessing this is a braces thing. I did some online research and thought I would share just in case anyone else has the same problem.
Here is what I found:
In some cases, switching toothpastes can prevent mouth ulcers from occurring, with some being able to reduce the occurrence of ulcers by approximately 80%. Sodium dodecyl sulfate (sometimes called sodium lauryl sulfate or simply SLS), a detergent found in most toothpastes, is thought to increase the incidence of mouth ulcers. Using toothpaste free of this compound has been found to help many people by reducing the amount and size of ulcers and in some cases, completely stopping them. A few individuals have noticed that switching to a toothpaste with Baking Soda prevented reoccurance of mouth ulcers.
Many people have found that taking Lysine-L supplements can help to reduce the frequency of mouth ulcer appearances. Additionally, zinc deficiency has been observed in people with recurrent mouth ulcers, and zinc supplementation decreased recurrence of the mouth ulcers.
Use of a hydrogen peroxide antiseptic mouthwash can help to clean debris and bacteria that can accumulate in an ulcer, thus reducing complications associated with its presence. This treatment is widely available at pharmacies from companies such as Colgate, whose product is called Peroxyl.

I am going to the drugstore TODAY.

Posted: Fri Dec 16, 2005 1:44 pm
by Jodster
I can totally attest to the use of L-Lysine as a supplement while you are in braces. It has really helped me and I have noticed a considerable drop in the number of ulcers I have now as opposed to in the first month or so.

Also, the Peroxyl really helps, but you can rinse with straight peroxide and get the same benefit (and it's much cheaper). I usually would mix 2/3 peroxide with 1/3 water, but straight isn't harmful, either.

Just my two cents!!