Sore mouth

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Tel No: 01223 216 655

If your mouth or throat becomes sore during illness or treatment, the following advice may help:

• Avoid highly spiced foods such as chilli; very salty foods such as crisps; and sharp, acidic foods such as vinegar.
• Avoid dry, rough or hard foods such as toast, biscuits and crisps.
• If you are finding it difficult to chew soft foods add extra gravy, sauces, butter, custard or cream etc.
• Avoid very hot food and drinks and allow them to cool first.
• Eat little and often and have plenty to drink. Try small sips throughout the day if you can’t tolerate a lot at one time.
• Drink plenty of nourishing fluids such as full cream milk, milky drinks (e.g. hot chocolate, Horlicks with milk) and milkshakes.
• Try drinking through a straw - it may be less painful than from a cup.
• Very hot drinks may irritate your mouth; warm or cold drinks may be more soothing.
• Try adding ice or ice cream to drinks.
• Suck ice cubes or ice-lollies. If you are using nourishing supplement drinks then these can also be frozen.
• Avoid acidic drinks such as fruit juice such as orange, tomato or pineapple.
• Alcohol (especially spirits) may irritate a sore mouth.
• Mouth hygiene is important, especially if you are taking sugary drinks and snacks. Brushing your teeth regularly with a soft toothbrush and using a fluoride toothpaste is advisable. Mouthwashes can be helpful, whether you have your own teeth or wear dentures.
• Take any painkillers or mouthwashes your doctor suggests before you eat or drink.