Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Milk has traditionally been used as a home remedy to soothe canker sores (aphthous ulcers), although the scientific evidence supporting its efficacy is minimal. Milk, especially milk of magnesia (which is not the same as dairy milk), is more commonly cited in home remedy literature, but some sources suggest that rinsing the mouth with cold dairy milk or holding it over the sore can provide temporary relief due to its soothing and coating properties. The rationale is that milk can form a protective barrier over the ulcer, reducing irritation from acidic or spicy foods and the mechanical action of the tongue or teeth. Additionally, milk contains proteins such as casein and immunoglobulins, which could theoretically have mild anti-inflammatory or healing effects, although robust clinical evidence for these effects in the context of canker sores is lacking.

Most recommendations for milk as a treatment for canker sores are anecdotal and found in folk medicine or on websites focused on home health tips rather than in peer-reviewed medical literature. No well-designed clinical trials have established dairy milk as an effective treatment for the healing or pain relief of canker sores. Therefore, its use is best categorized as a traditional remedy with a low level of supporting evidence. If symptoms persist or are severe, evidence-based treatments such as topical corticosteroids or prescribed mouthwashes are more strongly supported by the dental and medical communities.

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