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Lifestyle and home remedies
By Mayo Clinic staffTrench mouth can be extremely painful. To help care for yourself and cope during treatment:
- Avoid smoking or using other tobacco products
- Take pain medications as recommended
- Follow a liquid diet, if recommended, the first few days of treatment to minimize pain
- Avoid spicy or very hot foods, which can irritate your tender gums
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated
- Avoid drinking carbonated beverages or alcohol
- Keep all dental appointments
- Get plenty of rest to reduce physical and emotional stress
- Eat a healthy diet to improve nutrition
References
- Murrell GL. Trench mouth. Otolaryngology — Head and Neck Surgery. 2010;143:599.
- Wilder RS, et al. Gingivitis and periodontitis in adults: Classification and dental treatment. http://www.uptodate.com/home. Accessed March 4, 2013.
- Gingivitis. The Merck Manuals: The Merck Manual for Healthcare Professionals. http://www.merck.com/mmpe/sec08/ch095/ch095c.html?qt=trench%20mouth&alt=sh. Accessed March 4, 2013.
- Baumgartner A, et al. The phylum Synergistetes in gingivitis and necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis. Journal of Medical Microbiology. 2012;61:1600.
- Tips for coping with stress. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. http://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/pub/coping_with_stress_tips.html. Accessed March 4, 2013.
- Li AW, et al. The effects of yoga on anxiety and stress. Alternative Medicine Review. 2012;17:21.
- Sheridan PJ (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. March 8, 2013.
- Koka S (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. March 21, 2013.
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