MOUTH ULCERS

Iglü Sugar-Free Pastilles, €7.45, pack of 24

CLAIM: Dissolve slowly to soothe the pain and discomfort caused by mouth ulcers and sores. Antiseptic action helps to fight infection.

EXPERT VERDICT: ‘A good product to help ease the discomfort associated with a mouth ulcer, but it won’t get rid of it,’ says Dr Ben Atkins, a dentist and spokesman for the Oral Health Foundation.

‘They contain benzalkonium chloride, which can help inhibit bacterial growth, reducing the infection thatcaused the ulcer. Usually a single ulcer is caused by biting the cheek or tongue or poor-fitting dentures.

‘These are called “traumatic” ulcers.

If mouth ulcers keep coming back, it’s called recurrent aphthous stomatitis. An ulcer lasting several weeks should be checked by a dentist, as it can be a sign of something more serious.’

6/10