Please provide some do's and don'ts on dealing with canker sores.

Prevention: Canker sore or more specifically aphthous ulcer can be prevented by avoiding a common foam detergent found in most toothpastes called sodium laurel sulfate. Switching to biotene or other toothpaste not containing this ingredient can be the cure in preventing this painful condition.

Ignore: Stress can cause canker sores, so try to control stress in your life.

Ignore: Do keep a food diary to find out if certain foods can trigger your canker sores.

Ignore: Common problem. Maalox may help coat/soothe. Avoid citric acid and spicy food. Resolves with time.

Ignore: Do use a prescription steroid mouth rinse. Don't eat acidic or spicy foods. Do try benzocaine.

Ignore: Raise the temperature of the lesion by 5 degrees - it kills the virus. Ice won't help.

Ignore: OraGel helps the pain because it coats the raw ulcerative tissue.

Ignore: Short term Kenalog (triamcinolone) is a good treatment for Canker sores.

Ignore: Do consider using all natural toothpaste. Don't ear "sharp" foods (e.g. crackers, nachos).

Ignore: Do not rub or scratch as it is viral and can spread during the active stage.

A: A non sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) toothpaste may help reduce their reoccurrence.

Ignore: Avoid acidic foods and drinks. Keep stress low Leave it alone, don't aggravate it Use medicine.

Ignore: Over the counter medications can help with healing.

Ignore: Avoid acidic foods(citric acid/spicy); if you just ate acidic food, swish with water several times!