Mouth Sores, Ulcers & Blisters from Gutkha — Home Remedies + Medicines
Clear, actionable home care and over-the-counter options for mouth ulcers caused by gutkha (tobacco/betel nut). Includes prevention and red flags for dental/ENT consultation.
Stop the Cause — Most Important Step
Quit gutkha and any tobacco/betel nut product immediately. Continued chewing prevents healing and increases risk of pre-cancerous changes in the mouth.
Home Remedies (Fast, Safe, Low-cost)
Salt Water Rinse
Mix 1 teaspoon salt in a glass of warm water. Rinse/gargle for 30 seconds, 3–4 times daily.
Honey + Turmeric Paste
Mix a pinch of turmeric with 1 teaspoon honey. Apply gently to the ulcer 2–3 times daily. Antimicrobial and soothing.
Coconut Oil Swish (Oil Pulling)
Swish 1 tablespoon of coconut oil for 5 minutes and spit out. Do not swallow. Repeat once daily for comfort and cleaner mouth environment.
Aloe Vera Gel
Apply fresh aloe vera gel directly on the sore as needed for pain relief and faster healing.
Baking Soda Rinse
Mix ½ teaspoon baking soda in warm water and rinse twice daily to neutralize acids and reduce irritation.
Cold Compress & Soft Foods
Use ice chips or cold curd and prefer soft, bland foods — avoid spicy, acidic, or crunchy items until healed.
Over-the-Counter Medicines & Uses
| Category | Examples (brand names may vary) | How to use |
|---|---|---|
| Topical steroid gel | Triamcinolone dental paste (e.g., Kenacort oral paste) | Apply a small amount on the ulcer 3–4 times daily (short course). Use only as directed. |
| Antiseptic gels | Mucopain, Dologel | Apply after meals 2–4 times daily to reduce pain and prevent infection. |
| Antiseptic mouthwash | Povidone-iodine (Betadine) gargle, Chlorhexidine (Hexidine) | Gargle as per label, usually twice daily. Do not swallow. |
| Oral analgesics | Paracetamol, Ibuprofen | For severe pain, take as per dose instructions or doctor’s advice. |
| Vitamin supplements | Vitamin B-complex (Becosules, Neurobion) | 1 tablet daily after food for 2–4 weeks if deficiency suspected. |
| Antibiotics | Only if prescribed | Don’t self-prescribe. Required only when a dentist/doctor confirms infection. |
Important: Use topical steroids and antibiotics only under a clinician’s guidance. Stop any tobacco use to allow medications and home care to work.
Prevention & Oral Care
- Quit gutkha — the single most effective prevention.
- Brush gently with a soft toothbrush twice daily and floss once daily.
- Avoid alcohol and smoking while healing.
- Regular dental check-ups, especially if you have long-term tobacco use.
When to See a Doctor (Red Flags)
- Any mouth ulcer or white/red patch that lasts more than 2 weeks.
- Painful, rapidly growing sores, or lumps that don’t improve.
- Difficulty swallowing, persistent bleeding, numbness, or reduced mouth opening.
Why: Long-term gutkha use increases risk of pre-cancerous lesions (leukoplakia, erythroplakia) and oral cancer. Early evaluation by a dentist/ENT improves outcomes.
Quick FAQ
Q: How fast do ulcers heal?
A: Minor ulcers often heal in 7–14 days with care. If persistent beyond 2 weeks, see a clinician.
Q: Can I use mouthwash with alcohol?
A: Avoid alcohol-based mouthwashes while sores are active — they sting and delay healing.
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