Q: I am a female, age 63. I traveled this week, drank lots of coffee and orange juice each morning, slept less than normal. The inside of my mouth, cheeks and gums are raw and sore. It’s hard to eat. Can you suggest a remedy to alleviate the pain?
A: It sounds like you are run down and might have something systemic brewing. Avoid citrus products, spices, and mouthwashes with alcohol. I suggest a visit to the Periodontist to confirm a diagnosis. In the meantime, you can use a combination of milk of magnesia and liquid Benadryl in equal amounts in a bottle, mix and shake, and then swish/rinse your mouth with about 5cc several times a day. However, do not swallow! If you have allergies to any of these ingredients please don’t use this home regimen. A pharmacist can also prepare this mixture for you. This rinse regimen will help alleviate the pain. This is not a cure. I want to emphasize that a visit to the Periodontist is mandatory as soon as possible.
