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A sore mouth or throat can be caused by your medication, a side effect of treatment or occur during illness. It can feel very painful and cause eating and drinking to be difficult.

It can also be a result of oral thrush or mouth ulcers, so seek further advice and treatment to help relieve these symptoms.

Maintaining regular mouth care can help a sore mouth. Brush your teeth regularly and use mouthwash. If you wear dentures, ensure they fit well and are cleaned regularly.

Drinks

  • Drink plenty of fluids: aim for 8-10 glasses each day. Keep your mouth moist
  • Cold drinks can be soothing. Add crushed ice to drinks. Ice lollies and ice cream can also be soothing. If you use nutritional supplement drinks, these can be served chilled or frozen
  • Avoid citrus drinks as these may sting. Try drinking blackcurrant or rosehip syrup, apple juice, peach or pear nectar in place of these
  • Drink nourishing fluids if you are unable to eat normally, such as full fat milk, milky drinks and milkshakes. If you have been advised to take any nutritional supplement drinks, continue to take these if you can
  • Try drinking through a straw, it may be less painful than from a cup
  • Avoid very hot or fizzy drinks as these may irritate or sting your mouth

Food

  • Let hot food cool first
  • Avoid using too much salt/vinegar or having very spicy foods as these may sting your mouth
  • Avoid rough foods such as toast, crisps and raw vegetables as they can be abrasive. Try soft, moist foods with extra sauce and gravy as they may be easier to manage
  • Add gravy, sauces, butter, custard or cream to your food to soften and moisten it
  • Soft or smooth/sieved food may be easier to eat. Try creamy soups or casseroles, macaroni cheese, creamy pasta dishes, yogurt or puddings

Mouth Care

  • Mouth hygiene is important, especially if you are taking sugary drinks and snacks. It is advisable to brush your teeth regularly with a soft toothbrush, using fluoride toothpaste
  • Smoking and alcohol may make your mouth more sore
  • Lip balm can be used if lips are sore or dry
  • Tell your doctor- soothing or antiseptic lotions, sprays and mouthwashes can be prescribed. Take these before you eat and drink

If you are struggling to eat or drink enough due to your sore mouth, please let your Nurse or Doctor know - you may need extra support to get the nutrition you need
 

Contact us

If you have any queries relating to this information, please contact the Dietetics service.

About this information

Service:
Dietetics

Reference:
HH/005

Approval date:
1 November 2025

Review date:
1 November 2028

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Important note 

This page provides general information only. It is developed by clinical staff and is reviewed regularly every 3 years for accuracy. For personal advice about your health, or if you have any concerns, please speak to your doctor.