DEAR DR. GOTT: In a past column, you responded to a reader whose daughter suffered from constant mouth sores. You told her to switch toothpastes and use Orajel and similar products. I agree with your recommendation of Orajel for short-term treatment.

I, too, suffered from canker/cold sores that never seemed to end. I tried every remedy suggested, including switching to a natural toothpaste. Nothing seemed to work until I, on a hunch, stopped eating acidic foods like orange juice, tomatoes, strawberries and more. Once I reduced the amount of acid I was taking in, the problem resolved.

A friend of mine also suffered from mouth sores, but, because of acid reflux, already had a limited intake of acidic foods. She went to her dentist, who told her to dab original red-gel CloseUp toothpaste on the sores a few times a day, especially just before bed. Within two or three days, the sores were healed completely.

I hope this helps the young lady and anyone else who is suffering from these incredibly painful and unattractive sores.

DEAR READER: I have not heard of either of these remedies but am printing your letter for reader interest.

Mouth sores (canker sores, cold sores, fever blisters) are fairly common and painful. They are often inside the mouth, making most topical treatments difficult to apply because they are "washed away" by the constant presence of saliva. This means that even the most effective treatment often has to be applied several times a day.

If home remedies do not solve the problem, I recommend seeing a dentist who specialises in mouth and tooth disorders. He or she may have several remedies of which I am unaware. Thanks for writing.

DEAR DR. GOTT: My husband and I have been on your "No Flour, No Sugar" diet for a year. He has lost 30 pounds and I have lost 25. A while back, someone wrote to you complaining that the diet was too hard to follow and that your recommendation of Rice Krispies was wrong because it contains sugar.

I would just like to clarify for anyone who was considering the diet but may not be now because of this woman that your diet really is easy! True, Rice Krispies has sugar, but you are human and sometimes make mistakes. You make it very clear in your book "Dr. Gott's No Flour, No Sugar Diet" that reading labels is very important. The most difficult part of any diet is finding the will power and determination to stick with it, but yours is so simple, and the variety of food is amazing. You made it even easier with your follow up "Dr. Gott's No Flour, No Sugar Cook Book." My husband and I plan to stick with your "lifestyle" choice not only because we are losing weight, but because we are looking and, more importantly, feeling better. We are able to exercise more and lead an active, enjoyable life. Thank you!

DEAR READER: Congratulations on your success. You and your husband have both proven that you have the will power and determination to make positive lifestyle choices and are now reaping the benefits. Keep up the good work.

Doctor Gott is a retired physician and the author of the book "Dr. Gott's No Flour, No Sugar Diet," available at most chain and independent bookstores, and the recently published "Dr. Gott's No Flour, No Sugar Cookbook."